Headline: Zidane’s first France staff altered as podiatrist Retali loses place
At Clairefontaine, a new France era is waiting under the lights. Zinédine Zidane is preparing to name his first squad and take charge of his opening international camp, but one change has already been made behind the scenes: podiatrist Marc Rétali has been removed from the technical staff.
SEO Title: Zidane France staff change as Marc Retali replaced before first squad
SEO Description: Zinédine Zidane’s France backroom team has been revised before his first squad announcement, with Marc Rétali replaced by Serge Isidro.
Zidane prepares for first France assignment
France will meet again more than two months after their 2026 World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain, beginning preparations for the next international window and four Nations League fixtures.
- Zidane will make his debut as France head coach away to Turkey on 25 September.
- His first squad selection is due to be announced on Friday at 18:00.
- The French Football Federation has now confirmed a 23-person staff, including the 1998 World Cup winner.
Retali omitted from final staff list
Rétali had appeared in an earlier version of the France set-up published on 13 August. The Alsace-born podiatrist was no longer included when the final group was confirmed on Tuesday.
Serge Isidro has instead joined the medical department as podiatrist. Isidro has previously worked with Benfica’s footballers and Nanterre’s basketball players.
He will work in a medical unit led by Marseille-based doctor Hervé Collado.
Media interview behind the change
The decision followed an interview in which Rétali spoke publicly about what he described as a dream-like moment after receiving the role.
- The interview had not been approved in advance.
- Those close to the France staff said the required discretion had not been observed.
- Rétali’s camp contests that position, arguing that no such obligation could apply before his contract had been signed.
Rétali has spent 20 years working with Sochaux and has also been involved with cycling teams. His brief inclusion and subsequent omission means Zidane’s first France camp will begin with Isidro in the role instead.
