The France national football team is reeling after its long-time security chief, Mohamed Sanhadji, was placed under formal investigation for allegedly extracting money from players. The case involves incidents over several years and touches major figures within the squad.
Sanhadji, 57, nicknamed 'Momo' or 'La République' by the group, is suspected of misappropriation of public funds, corruption and fraud. He was placed under judicial control on September 16 and is now barred from entering Clairefontaine or contacting the football world. The investigation suggests he obtained nearly 300,000 euros from French internationals between 2020 and 2024.
Significant loans
Among the sums involved, a 120,000 euro loan granted by Kylian Mbappé via his mother Fayza Lamari before a notary is cited. The striker, France's top scorer this season with 10 goals, is also said to have provided an undeclared 60,300 euros. Other internationals like Raphaël Varane, Sabri Lamouchi, Laurent Blanc, Yann M'Vila and Mattéo Guendouzi are also alleged to have contributed, totalling 215,000 euros, following a request for help buying a house. Sanhadji reportedly insisted to each that it remain "their little secret," adding "otherwise I am dead."
A member of the former staff said: "We fell off our chairs." Searches were conducted at the French Football Federation headquarters and at Fayza Lamari's home.
The sporting context
They drew 1-1 with Italy on Saturday and face Belgium again this Monday, October 5. The squad, which can check its fixtures, must now manage this off-field turbulence during a key phase. The team's recent form, averaging 2.3 goals per game over the last three months, and their next fixture against Belgium, against whom they scored 4 goals in 90 minutes in their last meeting, will be watched closely to see if the squad's focus has been disrupted.
Background and full detail: Le Figaro
