Quentin Westberg has shared memories of Fabien Barthez serving as an unofficial goalkeeping coach during their time together at Luzenac, according to a report from lequipe.fr. The former goalkeeper detailed how Barthez took on that informal role within the club's setup.
Westberg's recollections come as Barthez has recently been appointed as the goalkeeping coach for the France national team. The French Football Federation (FFF) unveiled the new staff under head coach Zinedine Zidane, with Barthez among the key additions, as reported by franceinfo and Foot Mercato.
The appointment marks a return to the national setup for Barthez, who was a legendary goalkeeper for France during his playing career. According to Eurosport, Zidane's staff includes familiar faces from the past, including Barthez and others linked to the 2002 World Cup campaign, blending experience with new roles.
Barthez's path to the France job includes his time at Luzenac, where he worked with Westberg. That period, though unofficial, helped shape his coaching credentials. L'Equipe's report highlights how Westberg remembers Barthez's hands-on approach during those sessions.
The broader context shows Zidane assembling a technical team that leans on trusted figures. Alongside Barthez, the staff includes names like Bettoni, Msaidie, and Dupont, according to lequipe.fr. This mix of former players and long-time collaborators signals a preference for continuity and familiarity.
What to watch next: how Barthez's unconventional coaching background translates to working with France's current goalkeepers under Zidane's leadership.
