Benjamin Pavard claims training sessions at Inter are more intense than at Bayern Munich and says he learns ‘something new every day’ with the Nerazzurri.
The French defender has released an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport while on international duty.
He joined Inter from Bayern Munich last summer and explained why he chose the Nerazzurri despite interest from other clubs.
“I’ve been following Serie A for years, also for the tactics. Italy is the home to the best defenders, so there were all the conditions to make this decision. Even when I play Playstation, I always use Adriano,” the French defender said.
It was the right decision. Everyone has welcomed me well. From coach Inzaghi to Javier Zanetti. I wanted a new challenge after seven years in Germany. Inter already wanted me in January and they have the project I was looking for.
Zanetti is a legend, when you think about Inter, he comes to mind immediately. Everyone respects him and he’s a good person. He was happy with my decision. He explained to me what Inter means.
It was so good. I had goosebumps when I saw our fans hitting the bus windows to motivate us. I play football for these emotions. I like passionate fans because I am like this too.
He also explained that Inter gave him the opportunity to play as a centre-back and revealed which defenders have inspired him.
“Many, from Laurent Blanc to Walter Samuel and more generally Paolo Maldini and Lilian Thuram. They have all inspired me. I am 27 and I can still improve,” he said.
“Simone Inzaghi is a leader and a great motivator. He does not underestimate any team. I am on good terms with him, but I need to learn Italian quickly because he only knows a few words in French.”
What has surprised him about Inter’s training sessions compared to those at Bayern Munich?
“I run much more. The intensity of the training session surprised me,” Pavard revealed.
“We do a lot of tactical work too. The approach is different.
“I learn something new every day. Specifically, we watch many videos and speak to staff members to understand where we can improve I also rewatch the games we play. I talk a lot to Bastoni, Acerbi, De Vrij and Darmian. They are international players too so it’s easy to understand each other. There is healthy competition between us.”
Pavard has reunited with his compatriot Marcus Thuram at San Siro.
“He has adapted well because the club has created the conditions to make us feel at ease,” said the French defender.
“I am happy for him, he’s a special guy. I hope he continues like this. I have great respect for his father. Marcus is helping me too because he speaks Italian.
“I came here to put the second star on the kit and repay the fans for the affection they have shown me. I received many messages on social media, even before signing for Inter.”