'Very happy with my debut' Benjamin Pavard enjoys dream start with Marseille
Benjamin Pavard could hardly have imagined a better start to life at Olympique de Marseille. The 2018 FIFA World Cup winner marked his debut at the Vélodrome with a headed goal in OM’s emphatic 4-0 victory over FC Lorient on Friday night.
Roberto De Zerbi had promised opportunities for Marseille’s summer recruits, and he kept his word. Pavard lined up alongside Nayef Aguerd and Facundo Medina in a brand-new central defensive trio – a sector that had been OM’s priority to strengthen after last season’s struggles.
The reshaped backline enjoyed a comfortable evening against Lorient, while other summer signings – Matt O’Riley, Emerson, Igor Paixao and Arthur Vermeeren – also made their first appearances in Olympien colours.
Pavard makes his mark on OM debut
Just 20 minutes into his debut, Pavard rose highest at the near post to head in Mason Greenwood’s corner and double OM’s lead. It was his first-ever goal in French domestic competition, having left LOSC Lille early in his career after just 25 Ligue 1 appearances before moves to VfB Stuttgart, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan.
The 28-year-old’s celebration underlined his joy, quickly swarmed by new teammates. Later, when Angel Gomes struck a spectacular third for Marseille, Pavard was the first to sprint over in congratulation – a telling sign of his rapid integration.
“Very happy with my debut”
The Maubeuge native went close to adding a second with a long-range strike reminiscent of his famous 2018 World Cup goal against Argentina, but the effort was blocked. He eventually departed to a standing ovation on the hour mark.
“I’m very happy with my first game, and my family was here to see it,” Pavard told Ligue 1+ post-match. “I feel good in this team. I was very well welcomed by Mehdi Benatia, the coach, the staff and the players.”
"The team is very strong now, after a good transfer window," Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi said following the game. "It was the first time the players played together. I'm very happy, when I look at my team with Pavard, Medina, Aguerd, for me it is something very positive."
Eyes on Europe
OM’s comfortable win over Lorient provides a timely boost ahead of their UEFA Champions League opener against Real Madrid next week.
"Now there is a completely different atmosphere with the players," added De Zerbi on his recruits. "They have a lot of enthusiasm to play for this club. We need that to face Madrid."
"We arrive at the Champions League with a history, we have a shirt that has a history so we must go and have the objective to go there and make the city proud."
READ MORE:
>>Pavard, Gomes, & Aguerd on target as Marseille cruise to 4-0 win over 10-man Lorient
