Barthez joins France staff, still weighing Maignan’s style

Fabien Barthez officially joined the France Equipe staff on Wednesday, becoming the new goalkeeper coach under head coach Zinédine Zidane. He will work with first‑choice keeper Mike Maignan, a player whose style he examined on RMC in May 2023 but did not find entirely convincing.

The appointment was confirmed on Wednesday, with Barthez replacing long‑time goalkeeper coach Franck Raviot. His role places him directly in Zidane’s technical team, responsible for training and preparing the France goalkeepers for upcoming competitions.

Barthez and Zidane share a history as teammates of the France 1998 World Cup‑winning side. Their friendship dates back to that triumph, adding a personal dimension to the new coaching partnership.

Speaking on the Super Moscato Show, Barthez said, “We are very good with Mike. I love Mike and I love his game, his posture.” He added, “When he plays it’s him, there is nothing academic.”

Earlier RMC analysis of Maignan

During a May 2023 appearance on RMC, Barthez analysed Maignan’s performances and remarked, “Comme il y a pas mal de gardiens scolaires, je trouve que lui il n’a rien de scolaire.” He argued that modern training demands keepers with varied skills, noting that “Mike does his stuff.”

Barthez later observed that Maignan’s recent displays at the World Cup 2026 and the 2025‑2026 season with AC Milan have not fully convinced him. He pointed out moments when the goalkeeper seemed frustrated after making only a single save, saying “it lacks something.”

The Equipe de France is set to convene for its first Nations League gathering at the end of September. The FranceEquipe will meet in the Nations League, and Barthez indicated that Maignan is expected to keep the trust of the new staff for that camp.

Despite the earlier reservations, Barthez affirmed, “I have enormous confidence in Mike, but we will see what it gives.” He added that his aim is to help the keeper reach a new plateau with the national side.