Zenedine Zidane is diligently finalizing his backroom staff as he prepares to take the reins of Les Bleus. The French Football Federation recently unveiled the majority of his team, paving the way for an exciting new chapter.
Xavier Giraudon, a respected journalist from Canal+ and InfoSport+, will step into the role of media officer, succeeding Raphaël Raymond, who has effectively managed press relations for the national team since 2018.
Giraudon’s experience and familiarity with Zidane, dating back to their time in Bordeaux during the 1990s, positions him well for this new challenge. He has covered Zidane’s journey from his early career to becoming a football legend with Juventus and Real Madrid, culminating in leading France to victory at the 1998 World Cup.
This shared history will facilitate Giraudon’s transition into his new role, especially as Zidane incorporates him into the restructuring at the national team’s training centre in Caen.
Anticipation builds for another 1998 World Cup champion joining the ranks. Zidane plans to unveil his complete technical and administrative staff at a press conference next month, with a few positions still awaiting confirmation.
The group is expected to consist of around 25 individuals, including former goalkeeper Fabien Barthez, who will coach the goalkeepers. Additionally, the name of Bernard Diomède has been circulating, suggesting he may also join Zidane’s technical staff. Diomède, currently coaching France’s under-20 national team, would reunite several champions from France’s golden generation.
As Zidane completes his team, he will officially embark on his journey with Les Bleus, starting with an away match against Turkey on September 25 in the UEFA Nations League. Just three days later, France will face Belgium, followed by Zidane’s first home match against Italy on October 2 at the Stade de France.
At this moment, Zidane is meticulously refining every aspect of his staff, as the French public eagerly anticipates the return of one of football’s most illustrious icons to lead the national team after a long wait.
