Lappel Du Pied -

The term is a staple in French media and political discourse to describe strategic overtures:

: It is commonly used when a public figure expresses a desire for someone to join a team or project. A famous example includes President Emmanuel Macron making an appel du pied to Zinédine Zidane, publicly signaling France's strong desire for him to return to coach in the French league. Lappel du pied

At its core, an is a veiled or discreet request. It is the equivalent of a "nudge" or a "wink" intended to signal interest without making an explicit, public demand. The term is a staple in French media