The former Lille coach, Rene Girardtalked about Benjamin Pavarddefender owned by Inter, at the microphones of linterista.it.
What was your first meeting with Benjamin?
“The first time I saw him play was with the Lille youth team, in a match against Manchester City coached by Patrick Viera. Let’s say that something could be glimpsed.”
What?
“I found him very mature for his young age, he seemed perfectly at ease, even though he started in the central defender position and then moved to the winger position.”
And then?
“I didn’t forget about him. As soon as two starters were injured, I told the management that I would like to see Benjamin among the professionals. His first match against Nantes was excellent.”
For him, Inter had the determination to invest a significant sum. Do you think he is underrated, considering he has never been considered among the top players? In the end, he always wins…
“We tend to put a label on all players. For Benjamin there is perhaps that of a good defender, but I think he is really strong, even technically and I don’t think that one can play in so many big clubs by chance, let alone win as much as him.”
What are his best qualities, in your opinion?
“The mental strength and then his physical qualities.”
He endeared himself to the Nerazzurri fans also for his friendliness and his “interism”. Can it become a flag for this club?
“In addition to being a great footballer, he is a polite, respectful boy, it is not for nothing that he is loved by everyone. So yes, he can become a symbol of Inter in my opinion.”