Benjamin Pavard has returned to Appiano Gentile with a point to prove. The French World Cup winner knows that his place in Simone Inzaghi's plans is n...
Benjamin Pavard has returned to Appiano Gentile with a point to prove. The French World Cup winner knows that his place in Simone Inzaghi's plans is no longer guaranteed. After a campaign that oscillated between brilliant defensive moments and costly lapses in concentration, the 28 year old is facing a pivotal summer. He is not just fighting for a starting berth. He is fighting to change the mind of a man who knows a thing or two about elite defending: Cristian Chivu.The Romanian legend, now a key figure in Inter's coaching setup, has a reputation for demanding absolute tactical discipline from his backline. Pavard, for all his quality, has sometimes looked a square peg in a round hole. Is he a centre back who likes to roam A full back who wants to tuck in That uncertainty has been a problem. Chivu will not tolerate that ambiguity. This pre. season is not about fitness; it is about education. Pavard must show he can master the low block, execute the high line, and provide the kind of transitional cover that makes Inter's system tick. If he fails to demonstrate that tactical flexibility, his stay at San Siro could be short.There is a sense of urgency in the air. The rumblings from Milan suggest that the club's hierarchy is not prepared to carry passengers. Pavard arrived with a glittering CV from Bayern Munich, but Serie A is a different beast. It chews up players who rely solely on reputation. The Frenchman needs to show he can be that clinical defender in the six yard box, not just a stylish one on the ball. Chivu will be watching every training session, every friendly, every misplaced pass like a hawk. This is squeaky bum time for the defender, and his future hinges on his response.
