France's new coaching staff is starting to take shape as they look set to assemble a formidable ticket.
It has been confirmed that former French hooker Raphael Ibanez will take on the role of new team manager. Ibanez last worked in a coaching capacity with the Bordeaux Bègles.
Fabien Galthie, who led Montpellier to a Top 14 Final during his stint their despite having one of the league's smallest budgets, has been widely reported to be the next head coach. Per RMC Sport, he will be joined by an expert trio as they look to build towards the 2023 World Cup which will take place in France.
William Servat, currently the scrum coach at Toulouse, is reported to be the next forwards' coach. Racing 92's attack coach Laurent Labit will also be involved. The defensive gap has reportedly been offered to Wales defence coach Shaun Edwards.
It has already been confirmed that Edwards will not join the Wigan Warriors in rugby league or the Wasps after Wales' Rugby World Cup campaign. Per French media reports, Edwards has been offered a four-year contract and negotiations are at an advanced stage.
Lyon forwards coach Karim Ghezal is also in the mix to look after the line-out. In total it would give Ibanez a five-man expert panel to work with.
When asked by AFP about ongoing proceedings, Ibanez gave the following answer:
I will not make specific comments in the coming days on that subject but after an interview yesterday with the federation president (Bernard Laporte), I have said yes to the team as manager.
