New Inter signing Benjamin Pavard admits he chatted on ‘several occasions’ with Yann Sommer and Marcus Thuram before joining the Nerazzurri and confirms he will play as a centre-back under Simone Inzaghi.
The France international has officially joined the Serie A giants from Bayern Munich on a permanent €32m deal including add-ons.
During his first interview with the club’s official website, Pavard revealed that he often spoke to Sommer and Thuram before signing with the Nerazzurri.
“We chatted on several occasions, I exchanged many messages with Marcus. He told me the atmosphere is great here and Inter are a top cub. I am delighted to join such a fantastic team,” he said.
Thuram and Pavard play for France while Sommer is another former Bayern Munich player who joined Inter this summer.
“Inter are all about winning, just look at the trophies behind me. I play football to win trophies, so I chose to sign for Inter,” continued Pavard.
“We’ve got top-class players here to help achieve this.
“I want to put a second star on Inter’s shirt and win a Scudetto, I am all about winning trophies. It’s important for the fans, the club and the players. I’ll do all I can to help the club win as many trophies as possible.”
The 27-year-old has won many trophies during his career, including a World Cup and a Champions League. What will he bring to Inter?
“The experience I picked up playing for France and Bayern Munich, I’ve learned so much,” he said.
“I come here with a job to do which is to show what I am capable of and to perform as well as I can.
“I’ve come here to play as a centre-back, but I can fill in across the back four.”
The Frenchman scored seven goals for Bayern Munich last season, so he could be an added attacking weapon for Inter this term.
“I’ve always been keen to get myself in goalscoring positions,” he admitted.
“I’ve actually scored against Inter, a header. My aim is to win matches and trophies and if I can celebrate with the fans, then all the better.
“The most important qualities for a defender are to cover well, win tackles and be resolute, if you are able to score or assist, then even better, but the most important thing remains defending.”
Pavard has signed a contract until June 2028 and is expected to make his Serie A debut when the Nerazzurri host Fiorentina at the Stadio Meazza this coming Sunday.