Inter Milan defender Benjamin Pavard could be out until the end of 2023 with the knee injury he sustained against Atlanta.

This according to today’s print edition of Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews, who report that the Nerazzurri’s medical staff still have some optimism for an earlier return.

The timeline as far as a recovery from his keen problem is becoming clearer for Pavard.

Medical tests yesterday revealed that the Frenchman will have to wear a knee brace for around three or four weeks.

This will be to help with the healing process of the aftermath of the dislocation of the left kneecap that Pavard suffered during the first half of Saturday’s match against Atalanta.

Then, Pavard can return to the training pitch to start building up fitness.

However, it is hardly as though the former Bayern Munich defender can get right back to action.

Pavard’s resumption of physical activity will have to be gradual.

Therefore, the likeliest hypothesis for when Pavard can return looks to be around six to eight weeks.

Inter Defender Benjamin Pavard Could Be Out Until 2024

Pavard is a key player for Inter, and the club will be anxious to get him back as soon as possible. Without, of course, rushing the player back to action prematurely.

Matteo Darmian has shown that he can cover very ably on the right side of the defense.

But even if only for depth on the right, Inter will hardly want to become over-reliant on the Italian.

There is no doubt that Pavard will be out for some of Inter’s big matches to come.

The Frenchman will certainly miss Serie A clashes with Juventus and Napoli after the international break.

Pavard will also be out for the rest of Inter’s Champions League group stage.

And then, it is uncertain whether the 2018 World Cup winner will be able to return before Christmas.

Given how long the player will have to wear a knee brace, and the prospects of having to spend significant time recuperating and building up fitness, there is certainly no guarantee of that.

But on the other hand, the Gazzetta report, Inter’s medical staff still have some hope.

Given Pavard’s history, the club are hoping that he could return a couple weeks earlier than might be expected.