Ex Inter Milan Defender Struggling At Marseille But Italian Former Brighton Coach Defends Him | OneFootball

Since returning from the October international break, former Inter Milan defender Benjamin Pavard has endured a difficult start to life at Olympique Marseille under Roberto De Zerbi, raising more doubts than confidence within the club.

Indeed, he has delivered a string of underwhelming performances that have left both supporters and staff concerned.

Even in the Champions League defeat to Atalanta, Pavard appeared far from his best, struggling to match the tempo and intensity of the Italian side’s attacks.

His form has dipped sharply, and as La Gazzetta dello Sport reports, via FCInterNews, the Frenchman must raise his level quickly.

Especially if he hopes to reclaim a place in Didier Deschamps’ France squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup in North America.

De Zerbi Defends Ex-Inter Man Pavard At Marseille

STOKE ON TRENT, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 28: Roberto De Zerbi, Manager of Brighton & Hove Albion, looks on prior to the Emirates FA Cup Fifth Round match between Stoke City and Brighton and Hove Albion at Bet365 Stadium on February 28, 2023 in Stoke on Trent, England. (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

Despite the criticism, Roberto De Zerbi stood by his player in Friday’s press conference before Marseille’s Ligue 1 clash with Stade Brest.

“I can’t explain everything,” De Zerbi said.

“Until the Lens match, we were doing well. The episode in Lisbon hurt us because Sporting didn’t create many chances. It was similar at Lens: we must stay balanced.

“Benjamin Pavard suffered from that, but he needs to stay calm because he’s a real asset. He shouldn’t feel too responsible, nor should any other player. The main responsibility lies with me and the management.”

For Pavard, the challenge is now mental as much as tactical – rediscovering the composure and defensive assurance that once made him a cornerstone at Inter and a World Cup winner with France.