First the volley goal in the style of Cristiano Ronaldo, then the clenched fist that Benjamin Pavard kept hammering on the Bayern logo in front of the fan curve.
FC Bayern: First brace for Benjamin Pavard
In every respect, it was a splendid performance by the 26-year-old Frenchman in the 5-3 win in the derby against FC Augsburg – and the next commitment to Munich. He had already expressed his attachment to Bayern during the Champions League win against Paris Saint-Germain during the week, when the suspended Pavard celebrated emotionally in the stands and later on the pitch. Now the defender followed suit. His first brace in the 150th competitive game for Bayern rounded off Pavard’s performance. Boom Boom Benji.
What a gala!
“I’m very happy. Two goals are great for me, I like volleys a lot”, Pavard said: “The team worked hard in the game against Paris. It was a very good game today, although many were tired. It’s even better that we won.”
Salihamidzic: “One of the outstanding players”
Pavard made a significant contribution to this with his two volley hits (19th and 35th minute), overall he showed a great performance and did not lose a single duel. “I’m really happy that Benji is doing so well. In the last four to six weeks he’s been one of the outstanding players here with us,” said sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic.
Does Pavard extend?
Forgotten are the dreary days of autumn and winter when Pavard loudly and publicly considered a change. In the current form is indispensable for the team coached by Julian Nagelsmann. A contract extension beyond 2024 would be logical and deserved.
“He comes to training every day with a smile. He’s happy, working, in a good mood and in good shape,” said Salihamidzic. “We’ll see about everything else.”
According to AZ information, a new Bayern contract is likely, both sides want to continue together. “I think Hasan can see for himself that Benji is performing well, that he always wants to win. Now he’s scored goals, too,” said Nagelsmann. “He also played very well in the Champions League in Paris. And I know that he feels extremely comfortable with the coaching team, that he feels in good hands there.”
Upamecano: “A very good week”
A plea from the trainer, who has been using Pavard as the right part of the back three for a few weeks. The Frenchman likes this central role, his self-confidence can be seen in almost every scene. That also inspires colleagues. Compatriot Dayot Upamecano gave Pavard the nickname ‘Pavarinho’ after his spectacular 3-1 goal.
It just works with the people of Munich. Salihamidzic summed it up with a view to progressing in the Champions League against PSG. “A very good week.” It got even better because Borussia Dortmund blundered in the derby at Schalke 04 and only played 2-2.
Nagelsmann gave the reminder anyway. “We can’t rest, the league is tight. Then there’s the draw for the Champions League – and the cup. April, when we have eight or nine games, will be a very exciting month.”
In which the Munich team have to defend a little better than against Augsburg. “We shouldn’t concede three goals,” said Jamal Musiala, “we’re angry about it.” For Nagelsmann, too, this was “somewhat unnecessary”. However, the positive outweighed the negative. “We can take a deep breath now and then we’ll continue next week,” said Joshua Kimmich.
Preparation for the game in Leverkusen on Sunday evening starts on Wednesday. Until then, Pavard will continue to practice volleys.
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