In a prelude to the 74th FIFA Congress, held in Bangkok, FIFA President Gianni Infantino laced up his boots for a friendly football clash alongside iconic stars of yesteryears. The pitch saw a gathering of stars including Luis Figo, Cafu, El-Hadji Diouf, Emmanuel Adebayor, Andriy Shevchenko, and Clarence Seedorf, each representing their footballing confederations.

Post-match, former Arsenal ace Emmanuel Adebayor, now adorned with wisdom from the sidelines, delved into his ex-club’s Premier League pursuits. Adebayor lauded the youthful vigour of the Gunners’ squad while flagging the absence of seasoned campaigners to navigate the choppy waters of elite competition. In a nod to Manchester City’s mastery, he pinpointed experience as the X-factor, a trait Arsenal could wield to close the gap.

Amidst tactical musings, Adebayor’s gaze shifted to Paris Saint-Germain’s golden boy, Kylian Mbappe. The Togolese maestro advocated for Mbappe’s autonomy in shaping his career trajectory, underlining the weight of his laurels – a World Cup triumph and glittering Parisian accolades, reported Africa News.

With the Premier League’s siren call echoing, Adebayor championed Mbappe’s prerogative, a call to embrace agency in the beautiful game’s labyrinth.

ORIGINAL STORY: Thai govt showcases Thai art and culture to FIFA members

The Thai government, serving as the host of the 74th FIFA Congress, welcomed Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) member nations with a grand reception at the Government House. The event featured mesmerising cultural performances that elevated the arts of Thailand directly to the global football community.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin yesterday, May 15, presided over a gala dinner at the Government House to warmly receive FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

Joining as co-host was the President of the Football Association of Thailand Nualphan Lamsam, also known as Madam Pang, who introduced the football leaders from around the world and their accompanying delegations visiting Thailand for the upcoming 74th FIFA Congress at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center on May 17.

The reception exuded a convivial atmosphere as members of the government, FIFA representatives, delegates from FIFA’s member nations, officials from the Sports Authority of Thailand, and the Football Association of Thailand gathered for an evening of dining and cultural immersion.

Showcasing Thailand’s rich artistic heritage, the government curated a series of enthralling performances that left attendees spellbound.

The evening commenced with the Rabam Frangkru dance by the Wijitranatakon Chaloempromongkhon troupe, followed by a special choral performance by the talented Thai Youth Choir.

Further captivating the audience was a puppetry showcase by the renowned Joe Louis Puppet Theater, accompanied by the contemporary melodies of the Bangkok Light Orchestra.

As a highlight, the Fine Arts Department presented a riveting performance depicting scenes from the Ramkien epic.

As a goodwill gesture, the PM presented Gianni Infantino with commemorative gifts, including a Hanuman mask and a white garland, symbolising Thailand’s cultural treasures.

The FIFA President gifted the Thai PM a jersey with the number 30 in return, recognising his esteemed position as Thailand’s 30th Prime Minister.

Through this grand reception, the Thai government succeeded in bringing the enchanting arts of Siam to the forefront of the global football stage, leaving an indelible impression on attendees from around the world.

The story FIFA’s Infantino takes to the pitch with legends in Bangkok (video) as seen on Thaiger News.