Against a backdrop of swirling controversy and pointed locker-room remarks, Inter Milan has reportedly chosen to draw a line under the recent Benjamin Pavard saga, opting against any financial sanction for their French defender. This decision, emerging from the heart of the Nerazzurri camp, is sure to spark debate among the faithful.

The initial flashpoint came during the Club World Cup, where Pavard was prematurely sidelined by injury. Citing a slow recovery, the French international pre-empted his teammates' arduous return to Milan, embarking on an early holiday while the rest of the squad still battled in the tournament's knockout stages.

This decision lands in particularly sensitive territory. Weeks prior, captain Lautaro Martinez had openly expressed his displeasure – a thinly veiled criticism – towards Hakan Çalhanoğlu, another injured player who had similarly left the squad early. Martinez’s candid remarks about "seeing many things I don't like" set a clear precedent, creating an atmosphere ripe for scrutiny when another player's actions raised similar questions.

Then came the digital misstep: photos of Pavard playing padel tennis during his vacation, innocently posted by a friend, but immediately casting an unwanted spotlight on his recovery and commitment. What was likely a simple, low-impact recreational activity transformed overnight into a social media firestorm, fueling whispers of player priorities and a perceived lack of team spirit, especially given the existing tensions.

Yet, the club, perhaps prioritising internal harmony and a forward-looking approach, has reportedly chosen pragmatism over punishment. The consensus, according to Italian media, points to a shared understanding that this entire episode was eminently avoidable, lamenting a simple lack of common sense in navigating the perils of instant sharing. It’s a stark reminder of the delicate balance professional athletes must strike in the digital age, where every casual moment can be misconstrued and amplified, often with significant repercussions for team morale and public perception.