France are about to undergo a historic shift. Zinedine Zidane has finalized his staff for the post-Deschamps era - and the lineup is ambitious. With a technical team of over 25 staffers, the incoming manager is banking on a XXL setup, deep data analysis and a stronger female presence in key roles. A first for the French national side.
What will France’s staff look like under Zidane?
According to RMC Sport, Zidane aims to break fourteen years of tradition. His staff could include more than 25 members, a record for Les Bleus. The goal: cover every angle, from individual performance to advanced stats. The former Real Madrid playmaker also wants to strengthen France’s data department, a sector he feels was underused under Didier Deschamps. Their last outing? A 2-0 thrashing of Morocco on July 9, 2026, extending their unbeaten run.
Another shake-up: a more gender-balanced backroom team. Zidane is pushing for more women in specialized roles - a groundbreaking move at this level. Several 1998 world champions, like Fabien Barthez, have been floated, but no names have been confirmed yet. The incoming gaffer is hunting for fresh profiles to stamp his authority from day one.
Why is this XXL staff sparking debate?
The FFF secured an exemption to let Zidane earn €300,000 gross per month, with bonuses potentially pushing his pay to €450,000 monthly. The price tag reflects the scale: a bloated staff and a hyper-prepared approach. But the revolution comes at a cost. The federation rushed to finalize Zidane’s contract before July 21, 2026, when a new law caps federation salaries at €450,000 gross per year.
France, meanwhile, keep winning. Their current streak? Five straight victories, capped by the 2-0 win over Morocco. Next up: hosting England on July 18, 2026 for the World Cup 2026 third-place playoff. A match that will also close Didier Deschamps’ fourteen-year reign.
What concrete changes await France?
Zidane isn’t stopping at a larger staff. He wants to overhaul performance analysis, with a beefed-up data department. The target? Sharpen every detail, from tactics to individual profiles. A blueprint drawn from his time at Real Madrid, where data was king.
Gender balance will also be central. Zidane is targeting female hires for key roles - a first for France. Rumors point to ex-players like Fabien Barthez, but nothing is locked in yet.
France, though, keep rolling. Their clash with England looms as a real-world test for this new era. One thing is clear: Zidane wants to make his mark from the very first day.
