FIFA to discuss biennial World Cup with coaches this week

PARIS - FIFA said on Monday it will hold talks with national team coaches this week over the controversial idea of holding the

men's World Cup every two years.

   The consultations about the proposals, which have come in for heavy
criticism from UEFA and CONMEBOL, the International Olympic Committee, as
well as coaches and players, will take place on Tuesday and Thursday.

   "The discussions will be led by FIFA Chief of Global Football Development
Arsene Wenger and will include a range of talking points, including player
health, international windows, the frequency of FIFA World Cup finals and
other important issues in the game," football's governing body said.

   The meetings will be held via online video calls.

   "As a coach of the men's national teams, their input is essential," former
Arsenal boss Wenger said in FIFA's statement.

   "Opportunities for us to come together are few and far between, but we
must embrace these occasions as such dialogue helps us all to protect the
unique place that football has in the world and to make it truly global."

   The World Cup has been played every four years, apart from cancellations
during World War II, since the inaugural edition in 1930.

   FIFA also wants major continental tournaments, including the European
Championship and Copa America, to be played every two years.

   A report from FIFA on the idea is set to be published in November before a global summit by the end of the year.BSS/AFP