Zinedine Zidane, appointed as France manager a month and a half ago, is confronting his first major challenge with a judicial scandal involving his head of security. Mohamed Sanhadji was placed under formal investigation on September 16, 2025, for alleged embezzlement of public funds, active corruption, and influence peddling, French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo announced on Wednesday.
Sanhadji suspended
The police officer, who served the national team for around twenty years under multiple coaches, has been placed on conservative suspension. Judicial control measures now prevent him from entering the Clairefontaine training centre. Diallo confirmed the FFF has joined the proceedings as a civil party. "Regarding this case, it is a case that is currently under investigation, so you can understand that this does not allow me to go into all the details," he said.
A valued staff member
Despite the situation, the president acknowledged Sanhadji's service. "Mohamed Sanhadji has provided very positive services to our national teams for about twenty years." Philippe Diallo stated. Sanhadji, who was retained in Zidane's staff after the last World Cup, had signed a permanent contract with the FFF this summer. A new police officer, under a convention with the Interior Ministry, is set to join the backroom staff soon.
Disruptive sporting context
The case emerges as Les Bleus, top of their Nations League group, are in strong form. They are unbeaten this season, with three wins and a draw. Their latest victory, a 4-1 win over Belgium on October 5, featured a Michael Olise brace. Kylian Mbappé, named in the investigation for providing money and favours to Sanhadji, remains the team's top scorer this season with ten goals. Zidane stated he was not happy with the situation, which comes weeks before the next fixture away to Italy on November 12. The internal disciplinary process against Mohamed Sanhadji is ongoing, with a potential hearing that could lead to dismissal.
Background and full detail: melty.fr
