Barthez Without Diploma in Zidane's Staff: Situation Deemed 'Abnormal'

Fabien Barthez does not yet hold the Football Coach Diploma (BEF) at the time the French Football Federation (FFF) integrates him into Zinédine Zidane’s staff, unveiled on July 28. His appointment as goalkeeper coach of the Blues raised questions in the sport.

The situation is nonetheless governed by regulations. Sports law explicitly allows an individual enrolled in a training program to work and be paid during this period. Barthez is precisely in the process of obtaining the BEF, a diploma recognized as a UEFA A license and awarded by the FFF subject to passing the exams.

This nuance did not prevent some observers from questioning the substance. Consultant Pierre Ménès stated on his YouTube channel that “the FFF cannot be strict with the amateur world and let Barthez, or Zidane or the national team do whatever they want.” He nevertheless acknowledged the specificity of the role: “There is something abnormal about this situation. That said, you also have to put the goalkeeper coach role in context. What are they asked to do? Above all, to have a good ball strike. At that level, with Barthez, we know we’re in good hands.”

Ménès nevertheless chose not to extend the debate: “It’s not very useful to argue about the subject. For now.” The twenty-two-member staff is moreover not yet complete, with the FFF set to soon announce a press officer.