Barthez is not just a famous former international. He was France’s established No. 1 for a decade, holding the role from shortly after Euro 1996 until his international retirement in 2006, and finishing with 87 caps.
That matters for a national side entering a new cycle.
The appointment also fits Zidane’s instinct for close, trusted relationships. Barthez is a former team-mate, a fellow winner and a figure who understands the pressure that comes with the national shirt.
The wider structure points the same way. David Bettoni, Zidane’s long-time assistant during both successful spells at Real Madrid, is also part of the new setup. That gives the head coach an immediate lieutenant who already knows his methods.
The rest of the technical team, as announced, includes:
This does not look like a rushed rebuild. It looks like a staff assembled to shorten the transition after Didier Deschamps.
There is also attention on Mohamed Sanhadji, France’s long-serving security chief since 2004. His role reportedly came under scrutiny before the 2026 World Cup, and reports suggest Zidane wants him to remain involved.
That may sit outside tactics, but it matters. International camps run on trust, routine and control.
For now, the biggest takeaway is simple: Zidane’s France is taking shape around familiar winners. The next storyline is how quickly that old chemistry can be turned into a modern support structure before Euro 2028 qualification and tournament planning gather pace.