Marina Granovskaia and Leila Pereira: Two women at the top of world football

As Chelsea and Palmeiras prepared to face each other in the 2022 Club World Cup final, two of the most influential women in football met in Abu Dhabi.

Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia and Palmeiras president Leila Pereira came together at the Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium

"I think women are for great for football," said Pereira.

"We can talk in a situation where neither of us can lose out."

Who is Marina Granovskaia?

Granovskaia arrived at Stamford Bridge with Roman Abramovich in 2003, where she has served as director of Chelsea.

She was born in Russia, so may not keep her job at the club given Abramovich's demand to sell the club amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The 47-year-old is involved in transfers and contractual dealings for Chelsea, having become the representative of the owner at the club in 2010.

"Her role has evolved," explains a Spanish director who has worked with Granovskaia.

"She has gone from Roman's assistant to being given full responsibility. From not participating in any negotiation with clubs or agents, to doing it all and meeting with the players.

"The truth is that she has learned a lot. She is cold and suspicious, but serious. If he [Abramovich] asks for something, she fulfils it."

Who is Leila Pereira?

Pereira became the first female president of Palmeiras when she was elected in November 2021. She is also a lawyer and owns Crefisa, the most important sponsor of the Brazilian club.

The 57-year-old has a strong relationship with Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro, who she celebrated Palmeiras' Copa Libertadores titles with in 2020 and 2021.

Palmeiras' board of directors also has two female vice presidents: Maria Tereza Bellangero and Neive de Andrade.