The defensive department at Bayern Munich was significantly bolstered this week. The German Champions finally confirmed the signing of Noussair Mazraoui. The Moroccan defender rejected approaches from other top European clubs to sign for Die Roten on a free transfer.
The arrival of Mazraoui is set to give much more balance to the back four at Bayern. Julian Nagelsmann will have a threat on both flanks as left-back and right-back will contribute at both ends of the pitch. Die Roten often looked one-dimensional in the final third as Benjamin Pavard was used as a conservative right-back.
Mazraoui’s arrival will be good news for Benjamin Pavard. The French defender will no longer play regularly in the right-back position, but he will be better utilized in the heart of the defense. Pavard is likely to become another center-back option for Nagelsmann from next season.
The French international has consistently expressed desire to play regularly in the center of defense. While talking to RMC on Thursday (via iMiaSanMia), Benjamin Pavard once again reiterated that he is most comfortable playing as a central defender. The French defender will finally get the opportunity to showcase his skill set in this role next season.
"“I’m a centre-back. That’s where I’m most comfortable. I learned a lot playing at right-back. But on the pitch I’m comfortable at centre-back and want to play there.”"
Benjamin Pavard used to play in central defense at VfB Stuttgart. He performed exceptionally well for France in the 2018 World Cup. After moving to Bayern in 2019, Pavard was used in the right-back position due to his consistent performances at the international level with France.
The 26-year-old defender seamlessly replicated his performances for France in Bavarian colours. He was one of the most consistent performers for Die Roten during the treble-winning campaign. After experiencing a dip in performances during his second season at Bayern, Pavard was back to his best this season.
Pavard will be getting more opportunities in central defense due to the departure of Niklas Sule. The Bavarian club does want a replacement, but it does look like the focus is on the attack. Pavard can step in and fill this void left by Sule. The French international may need some time to adapt, but he can be a valuable asset for Nagelsmann in the heart of defense from next season.
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The former Stuttgart defender also insisted that he is happy at Bayern when asked about his future. The French international currently has two years left on his current deal. Since he is in the prime of his career, Bayern may try to open talks for an extension during next season.