Ewen McKenzie has inched closer to becoming French club Stade Francais's next coach after Fabien Galthie confirmed his decision to quit the club at the end of the season.

Unwanted by the NSW Waratahs for the 2009 Super 14 season, the former Wallaby prop has been interviewed for the gig in France and is considered one of the frontrunners for the role.

Former France scrum half Galthie has coached the club since 2004 and led them to the French title in 2007.

But Galthie - whose side look all but certain to make the top four and therefore the play-offs for the French title this season - had let it be known over the past few weeks that he wanted a break, and confirmed his departure after telling his players on Thursday.

"I'm embarrassed to say this so early in the season," Galthie said at the press conference.

"But I had to say so early enough so that the club president could organise things for next season. I didn't want to leave him in the lurch.

"It's a difficult decision to take because being a coach is, I think, what I do best. Every moment I'm involved in coaching is a real pleasure for me, I feel good and am in my element."

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