Former Inter defender Fabio Galante believes that the criticism that current Nerazzurri captain Samir Handanovic has received has been over the top.
Speaking to Italian broadcaster Rai Radio, Galante gave his thoughts on the matter of whether Handanovic or Andre Onana should be the first-choice goalkeeper for Inter, and argued that the captain has effectively become a scapegoat.
The matter of who should be the regular starter in goal for Inter has become an open question, with Onana looking potentially poised to displace Handanovic in the role for the first time in a decade since the Slovenian joined from Udinese in the summer of 2012.
The Cameroonian performed well against Bayern Munich yesterday, and his presence in goal has been called for by many fans who feel that the captain’s performances haven’t been up to par.
However, the 37-year-old has hardly been responsible for major errors this season, and Galante feels that too much blame has been put on his shoulders.
“The role of goalkeeper is a unique one,” he said, “and I think they made a choice at the beginning of the season, that is to have Handanovic play in Serie A and Onana in the cup competitions.”
“When you concede goals the blame usually goes to the defense as a whole,” he continued, “but it must be said that Handanovic has had a target on his back.”
“He has not shown faults on the goals and the criticisms have been exaggerated,” Galante continued. “Having two options of this quality to alternate adds value to the team.”
