Papin, who is considered one of France’s most prolific strikers of all time, has been recently assured by chairman Philippe Ginestet that his job is safe, but Papin seems to have fallen out with the club's officials.

The former Marseille player insists that his departure from the Stade de la Meinau is only a matter of time.

"It is almost official, there are only some legal details remaining to sort out," Papin told French media.

Papin conceded that sporting director Fehrat Khirat is one of the major reasons behind his decision to part ways with Strasbourg.

"He unceasingly sought to discredit my work. Everywhere he passed, he sowed discord. He put sticks in the wheels of everyone," Papin added.

Papin was irritated by Khirat approaching Troyes manager Jean-Marc Furlan last year.

"I will not forget that he contacted Jean-Marc Furlan in December."

Egyptian defender Ahmed Abou-Mosallam plies his trade with the recently-promoted club, but has spent the last six weeks on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.

Strasbourg finished third in the Ligue2 last season, and so they bounce back to the top flight after one year in second division.