On 8 August 2006, Barthez announced he was still hoping to play professional football for another two years, insisting he was also looking to continue his career in the French international setup.
8. augustil 2006 teatas Barthez, et sooviks mängida profijalgpalli veel vähemalt kaks aastat, samuti soovis ta jätkata karjääri rahvuskoondises.