Italian journalist Riccardo Trevisani believes that goalkeeper Andre Onana could struggle to make his presence felt at Inter due to captain Samir Handanovic’s firm position in the squad.
Speaking to Italian broadcaster SportMediaset, Trevisani gave his analysis of the situation between the two goalkeepers at the Nerazzurri, and suggested that new boy Onana will have a hard time getting ahead of Handanovic as long as the captain remains in the team.
Onana was brought in from Ajax this summer with the clear plan for him to be Handanovic’s long-term successor in goal, although the Slovenian was also kept for at least one more season after signing a contract extension.
The current Number One has been at the club for a decade since joining from Udinese in 2012, and even though he has come in for some criticism for his form in recent seasons, remains an important dressing room figure and stabilizing influence.
It is for this reason that Trevisani feels that it won’t be easy for Onana to get ahead in the pecking order.
“Onana must be frustrated,” he suggested, “he thought he’d mark his arrival by playing some matches, but it’s difficult for him to impose himself, Handanovic won’t be happy if he feels his place is under threat.”
“If Onana comes in and is still the backup for a goalkeeper who has statistically been 19th in the league for saved shots, perhaps he’s not too happy and is wondering if he’s made the right choice, and wants playing time,” he added.
