Why Pavard Missed Out on the France Squad: Singing Inter Milan's Anthem at the Euros and Considering International Retirement at 28

The announcement of the latest France national team squad sparked a notable controversy with the exclusion of Benjamin Pavard. Many fans and analysts are asking: Why was Pavard left out? Let's take a closer look at the unfolding saga between Pavard and the French national team manager, Didier Deschamps, to better understand the reasoning behind this decision.

Deschamps’ Explanation: A Strategic Choice or Something More?

Deschamps provided two reasons for Pavard's omission from the squad. Firstly, he mentioned that Pavard had joined Inter Milan late due to his post-Euro 2024 break and had played fewer matches than his counterparts. This explanation, however, did not sit well with many observers, as most French internationals faced similar restrictions in terms of game time due to their post-tournament rest. Singling out Pavard seemed inconsistent.

Secondly, Deschamps indicated that he wanted to test other players in the position, specifically bringing in Chelsea's Wesley Fofana to replace Pavard. Fofana had been called up to the French squad once in 2023, and his rise at Stamford Bridge has been noticeable, warranting another look from Deschamps. The coach also emphasized that France has many matches ahead until the end of 2024, and this exclusion of Pavard was not definitive.

But is this the whole story? French media outlets believe there is more to it. As one French publication phrased it, "the mutual appreciation between Pavard and Deschamps is far less than the misunderstandings between them." The French press pointed out three significant incidents that may shed light on the situation.

Incident One: Zero Playing Time at Euro 2024

The first incident revolves around Pavard's complete lack of playing time during Euro 2024. Despite being positioned as a backup right-back, Pavard did not play a single minute in the tournament. In modern football, the full-back position is one of the most physically demanding, often requiring rotation even from managers who are reluctant to change their starting lineups, like Antonio Conte or Maurizio Sarri. Given the intensity of tournament schedules, Pavard’s lack of game time suggests a lack of trust from Deschamps.

Following the tournament, Deschamps immediately recalled Fofana. Should the Chelsea newcomer seize the opportunity, Pavard's standing in the national team could become even more precarious.

Incident Two: Singing “Pazza Inter” on the Team Plane

The second incident occurred during Euro 2024, when Pavard was reportedly caught singing "Pazza Inter" (the anthem of Inter Milan) on the French national team's plane. The story made waves in the media. While singing a club anthem in a national team setting might not inherently harm or insult anyone, the media’s coverage of it—combined with Pavard's uncertain standing in the national team—triggered considerable speculation.

From Inter Milan's perspective, this behavior is understandable. Pavard may not have felt valued within the national team but was clearly embraced and celebrated at his club, making it natural for him to express a longing for his club environment while on international duty. However, from Deschamps’ point of view, this could be interpreted in a less favorable light, further complicating the situation.

Incident Three: Contemplating Retirement from the National Team

The third incident, as reported by L'Équipe, involved Pavard seriously considering retiring from the French national team after the European Championship, citing an inability to reach mutual understanding with Deschamps. He was eventually persuaded otherwise. Many Inter fans also voiced their opposition to Pavard retiring from international duty. Despite the apparent disconnect with Deschamps, many argued that Pavard should wait it out, as Deschamps would not coach France forever (his current contract ends in 2026). At 28, Pavard could still have opportunities if he remained patient. Retirement, on the other hand, would have eliminated any chance of a future comeback.

Given these three key incidents, the French media suggests that Pavard’s exclusion from the current squad is likely rooted in his strained relationship with Deschamps. In fact, some believe this tension has existed since Euro 2024 and continues to affect Pavard's national team prospects.

The Underlying Issue: Full-Back or Center-Back?

At the heart of the conflict between Pavard and Deschamps lies a fundamental debate: should Pavard play as a full-back or a center-back? Pavard has made it clear that he does not enjoy playing as a full-back, insisting that his natural position is in central defense.

Ahead of Euro 2024, Deschamps publicly designated Pavard as a backup right-back for France, even stating in a press conference that "Pavard, in my opinion, is not a center-back. He does not play as a center-back for Inter Milan either." Pavard responded publicly, countering that "I was born to be a center-back; that is the position that suits me best."

Differences of opinion between a player and his coach are not uncommon, but such disagreements are typically handled privately. When these disputes are aired publicly, they only serve to complicate matters further. Pavard's outright exclusion from the squad now indicates that things have indeed become complicated.

The Inter Milan Perspective: A Blessing in Disguise?

For Inter Milan, Pavard's exclusion from the French squad could be seen as beneficial. On one hand, Pavard did not have a full pre-season due to his late return after the European Championship. The upcoming FIFA international break provides him with an opportunity to catch up on training, adjust his fitness, and improve his form, which could help him make a greater impact later in the season.

On the other hand, while Deschamps may not favor him, Inter’s coach, Simone Inzaghi, does. Pavard’s skills and experience are valued at the club, and Inter Milan fans are eager to help “heal” Pavard's emotional wounds caused by his struggles with the French national team.

As things stand, the relationship between Pavard and Deschamps remains tense, and Pavard’s future with the national team is uncertain. Until Deschamps' tenure ends or the manager decides to change his stance, Pavard may find himself on the outside looking in. However, at 28, he still has time to navigate this delicate situation and perhaps find a way back into the fold. For now, the Inter Milan faithful will welcome him with open arms, hoping he can channel his frustrations into strong performances for the Nerazzurri.