In football, things can change rapidly. During the 2018 World Cup, Benjamin Pavard was a key player for the French national team, remembered notably for his stunning goal against Argentina in the round of 16. However, Pavard's career trajectory has shifted. Despite performing well at Inter Milan in a central defense role, he finds himself in a challenging position ahead of Euro 2024. He is currently placed lower in the hierarchy of central defenders, trailing behind names like Upamecano, Konaté, and Saliba, and also finds limited opportunities on the right side with Jules Koundé as the first choice.
Speaking at a press conference at Home Deluxe Arena in Paderborn, Pavard addressed questions about his positioning and readiness. Despite acknowledging his preference for playing in the central defense, he emphasized his adaptation and readiness to play wherever required. 'Downgrade? No, not at all. I haven't played in 2022 but I feel good and ready to help the team. I am here for the collective,' Pavard stated. His comfort in front of the microphones and support for the coach's decisions were evident as he expressed his excitement for the upcoming matches and declared himself physically and mentally prepared, whether on the bench or the pitch.
The issue of his position, whether central or right, has been a talking point, reminiscent of discussions during Lilian Thuram's era. Pavard's versatility is undisputed; he has proven capable of performing at high levels in both positions. Pavard draws inspiration from Thuram, whom he considers a role model. 'Thuram is a reference, a very good human person and he gives me advice. I try to perform equally well in both positions,' Pavard noted. He pointed out that while his preference for center defense is known, the priority is always the team. Wearing the blue jersey of France has been a long-held dream, and he is willing to play in any role the coach assigns him.
The French team arrived in Germany on Wednesday and will play their first match against Austria in Düsseldorf. Pavard expressed the collective eagerness to commence the competition. Reflecting on his time at Inter Milan, he praised the club's supportive environment and the warmth of its fans. Coming off a stellar season where his team clinched the Italian championship, Pavard feels optimistic about his current form. His years in Germany, which began when he was 19 or 20, have imparted valuable lessons in discipline and rigor. He appreciated the full stadiums and positive atmosphere in German football, which shaped him significantly as both a player and an individual.
Pavard's experiences in Germany and his growth at Inter Milan underline his adaptability and resilience. At Inter Milan, he enjoyed a new phase in his career, embracing the team's structure and the fervent support of its fans. His reflections on the rigor and punctuality ingrained in the German football culture reveal the high standards he has integrated into his professional ethos.
- How do you perceive Kylian Mbappé’s form? It's very good. I am sure he will have a great Euro. He is very fulfilled. He's a great player, he'll show it during this Euro.
- What do you think of N’Golo Kanté? He is incredible. I feel like there are two more of us; He is smiling, endearing, he has lost none of his football.
- How do you see the political situation in France? I'm not here to judge people. Everyone should vote, young and old.
- Aren't the values of the far right the opposite of those of football? This affects us all. We all have to go vote but I'm not here to play politics but to talk about football.
- How would you define the style of the French team? We have a complete team. Up front, we have the best players in the world. Behind, in the middle, we are strong. We are united, we know how to suffer as a team. We can make a difference at any time.