New global union launched amid row between Fifa and Fifpro over player welfare

Speaking at the launch, Aganzo stated: "We have the strength to fight and give a voice to footballers. Founding this union was our duty because we are people with values. The word ‘independence’ is fundamental for AIF, just as loyalty is key when negotiating. Footballers must make their own decisions, not accept unilateral ones."

In response, Fifpro, which is recognised as the global representative organisation for footballers and comprises 70 national unions, issued a statement on Thursday accusing Aganzo of establishing the rival body for "personal motives".

"The concept announced in Madrid by its current president appears nothing more than a speculative attempt to boost his own standing through a group which lacks the fundamental legitimacy to represent professional footballers globally," the statement read.

"The evidence shows his concept is driven by personal motives rather than a mandate from players around the world."

Fifpro further claimed that since AFE’s departure, Aganzo had "engaged with groups that fail to meet basic standards of player representation including those lacking a democratic mandate from players; those closely linked to football governing bodies; and those that have been expelled from FIFPRO because of mismanagement."

The union concluded that "such an approach to player representation is not in the best interests of professional footballers."

Fifa, in a statement released on Wednesday regarding the new union, said: "Like others, Fifa has been made aware of the creation of AIF.

“As a general principle, Fifa remains committed to open and constructive engagement with football stakeholders that uphold core principles, including representativeness."