There were so many brilliant player success stories from the 2018 World Cup but Benjamin Pavard's is right at the very top of the list.
Pavard was largely unknown before the tournament opener and only made his international debut in November 2017.
What's even more incredible about his journey is that two years ago when France hosted Euro 2016, the 22-year old was watching all the action unfold in a fan park in Lille with his mates.
But fast forward to today and Pavard has played a key role in France's second World Cup win, twenty years on from their memorable 1998 triumph where Didier Deschamps was the captain, rather than manager like he was this time around.
Djibril Sidibe of Monaco was expected to be Les Bleus' first-choice right-back but he suffered an injury in preparation for the tournament and Pavard made the most his opportunity. He was uber consistent throughout and scored a goal of the tournament contender in the thrilling round of last victory over Argentina.
In an interview with French TV channel Telefoot, after his heroics against Argentina, Pavard received a message from his parents, as the emotions of his journey got the better of him.
"We are going through something amazing thanks to you." they said, according to Get French Football News.
Advert
The Stuttgart defender couldn't help but shed a tear as he stood next to his manager. What a scene.
You get the feeling we'll be seeing much more of Pavard, especially with such strong links to Bayern Munich coming about.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Football News, Euro 2016, Football, Benjamin Pavard, World Cup, France
