Benjamin Pavard is heading back to Inter Milan after one of the most disappointing loan spells of his career, and a damning statistic underlines just how badly his Marseille adventure has gone.
According to Stats Foot on X, via FCInterNews, Marseille have lost 38% of the matches Pavard started from the first minute, 11 defeats in 29 appearances.
The numbers tell a story that the eye test has confirmed throughout the season.
Marseille signed Pavard last summer on loan with a €15 million purchase option, expecting a significant upgrade on their defensive options.
Instead, they got a player who has looked a shadow of the World Cup winner who excelled at Bayern Munich.
Pavard Horror Show Continues As Marseille Reject Permanent Move & Defender Set For Inter Milan Return
His performance against Lorient represented his lowest point of the season.
Indeed, described as a “horror film” display by those covering the club.
Furthermore, a booking against Lorient means a suspension ruling him out of the subsequent Nantes fixture.
It is the latest indignity in a difficult campaign.
Therefore, the permanent transfer option has effectively been abandoned. Marseille will not pay €15 million for a player who has failed to convince.
Indeed, Inter now face the challenge of finding Pavard a new home this summer.
The Frenchman has no future at Inter under Chivu.
However, his salary demands and the transfer fee required make finding a buyer difficult.
Saudi Arabia and Turkey remain the most realistic options, with Premier League interest having faded given his form this season.
