This season, Benjamin Pavard’s fortunes at Bayern Munich have altered dramatically. At one time, it appeared he’d be leaving the club during the summer transfer window, and he’d even gone so far as to indicate he’d be open to a fresh challenge after winning everything imaginable at Bayern after signing from VfB Stuttgart.
Pavard’s preference for center-back over right-back hasn’t always been satisfied this season, and he’s also had a run with the injury bug. However, the whole of Bayern’s defense has struggled, from Lucas Hernandez to Noussair Mazraoui to Dayot Upamecano. Pavard has remained a staple in Bayern’s back line throughout.
Thomas Tuchel’s replacement of Julian Nagelsmann in March hasn’t changed anything for Pavard, who remains a regular in Tuchel’s favored 4-2-3-1 formation. Tuchel is a great fan as well.
“I’m delighted to be coaching Benjamin.” “He is absolutely consistent, very solid, and has a very high level,” Tuchel exclaimed ahead of the Bundesliga match against RB Leipzig (via @iMiaSanMia). “He can play CB and RB.” He provides us with numerous defensive opportunities. I’m quite pleased with him. He has a lot of self-assurance.”
Aside from the 3-1 loss at FSV Mainz at the end of April, Pavard has started the previous eight Bundesliga matches for Bayern, as well as both legs of the Champions League quarter-finals against Manchester City. Most of those recent starts have also come at center-back rather than right-back. Perhaps his future in Bavaria looks promising.
Leave a Reply