How the world turned on FIFA

‘We have stated before that we believe for the good of the game’s image, integrity and indeed future prosperity that Mr Blatter should stand down and allow FIFA to radically improve its governance and credibility. After today’s events, that position has crystallised still further. I think Sepp Blatter has had more comebacks than Frank Sinatra.’

GORDON STRACHAN

‘UEFA have been complaining. It’s time they did something instead of talking. Make people stand up and be aware of what’s going on. If anybody wants to have an idea how this has come about, you have to go back to Joao de Havelange. How he and Sepp Blatter got the power. There’s a book called How

They Stole Our Game by David Yallop. Read that and you’ll get a better understanding of what’s going on.’

GARY LINEKER

‘There can’t be a more corrupt, deplorable organisation on earth than FIFA. The house of cards is falling. Time for change! ‘If Blatter had even a crumb of dignity remaining, he’d walk away now, creep back to his lair, sit in his armchair and stroke his cat.’

ROMARIO

‘Many of the corrupt and thieves who do harm to football were arrested — including one of the largest in the country, Jose Maria Marin (former president of the Brazilian FA). ‘Thieves have to go to jail. I congratulate the FBI and the Swiss police for their attitude. I hope this has positive repercussions and they are applied in South America.’

DAVID GINOLA

‘There have been allegations for years towards FIFA. We need to know why they decided to give the World Cup to Qatar for example. ‘This is the start of something big. We will hopefully see in the next few years a new era among FIFA.’

LUIS FIGO

‘People who love football such as I do, will remember May 26 as one of the worst days of the history of FIFA.’