Pavard praises Hernandez as reliable competitor ahead of PSG's trip to Villarreal

Benjamin Pavard made no secret of his admiration for Lucas Hernandez following the PSG defender’s performance against FC Barcelona on October 20 (4-2 victory), in comments given to L’Équipe.

Signed for €45 million in summer 2023, Hernandez had long struggled in Luis Enrique’s pecking order before being given a start against Barcelona and delivering a standout display. His friend and former France teammate, now at Inter Milan, said he was not surprised. “I’m not surprised. I know the effort he puts in every day to be ready when called upon. In training, for example, he’s always fully committed,” Pavard said.

The Inter defender stressed Hernandez’s competitive character, often perceived as laid-back off the pitch. “You get the impression he’s always joking around, but when it’s time to dig in, he’s always there. He gives everything, whether he’s starting or playing just five minutes. He’s someone who’s always at the service of the team and someone you can rely on.”

These compliments come ahead of another European fixture for PSG, who travel to Villarreal for matchday four of the Champions League league phase. With Nuno Mendes still sidelined through injury, Hernandez is expected to line up again at left-back in PSG’s defence.