Inter captain Samir Handanovic’s error on AC Milan’s second goal in yesterday’s 2-1 derby loss may have shown that Andre Onana’s arrival can’t come soon enough, but he also showed his leadership afterwards.
This according to today’s print edition of Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, who highlight how the 37-year-old was the only player to speak to the press afterwards, and argue that he showed focus on the task ahead and a defiant spirit.
Handanovic made a diver for Olivier Giroud’s second goal in a quickfire brace, but the Frenchman’s shot seemed to go through the captain’s hands.
The error proved very costly, as the goal gave the Rossoneri the lead for the first time in the match, and condemned the Nerazzurri to their second defeat of the campaign in Serie A.
However, after the final whistle the Slovenian was the one to present himself to reporters while the rest of his teammates did not.
In his words to the press, Handanovic acknowledged the weight of the loss, but primarily emphasized that the only thing that they can do now is learn from their mistakes and give all their attention to the Coppa Italia clash against Roma during the week.
With several important matches close on the horizon across all competitions for the Nerazzurri, the captain made the point that the team cannot become preoccupied with a disappointing derby defeat.
Even with the increasingly erratic performances that he has shown on the pitch, Handanovic remains a leader within the squad, and can guide the team through choppy waters, according to the Gazzetta.