Handanovic: What's the reason why he doesn't play

Samir Handanovic, the Slovenian goalkeeper who currently plays for Inter Milan, has been one of the most reliable shot-stoppers in Serie A in recent years. Renowned for his excellent reflexes, acrobatic saves, and leadership qualities, Handanovic is often considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world. However, in recent times, his absence from the starting lineup has raised questions among fans and pundits alike.

Handanovic joined Inter Milan in 2012 from Udinese and quickly established himself as the team’s first-choice goalkeeper. Over the years, he has consistently shown his worth by making numerous crucial saves, which often helped his team secure valuable points. His consistency between the posts has been unmatched, and he has helped Inter Milan become a formidable force in Italian football once again.

So, what could be the reason behind Handanovic’s absence from the starting lineup in recent matches? One possible explanation is the emergence of his understudy, Samir Padelli. The 36-year-old Padelli has proved to be a reliable backup for Handanovic, impressing with his performances whenever called upon. The manager may believe that giving Padelli some game time provides him with valuable experience and ensures a smooth transition in case Handanovic’s form dips or he faces injury.

Another reason for Handanovic’s absence might be tactical alterations employed by the manager. Every coach has their preferred style of play and tactics, and it is possible that he believes Padelli’s skillset may be better suited to a particular system. This is not to undermine Handanovic’s abilities but rather to utilize the backup goalkeeper to the best of his abilities. Such tactical changes are common in football, and it allows the team to adapt to different opponents effectively.

Injuries could also be a cause for Handanovic’s absence. With the physical demands of professional football, injuries are unfortunately a part of the game. Handanovic, like any other player, is susceptible to injuries, and if he is currently nursing a minor ailment, the manager may decide to rest him to prevent any aggravation. This decision is undertaken to ensure his long-term fitness and availability.

It is worth noting that Handanovic is now 37 years old, and age might also play a role in his absence from the starting lineup. Despite his exceptional skills, the physical demands of top-level football can be taxing, particularly for goalkeepers. The manager might be managing Handanovic’s workload to avoid overexertion and burnout. With matches often played in quick succession, rotation can be a useful tool to keep players fresh and mitigate the risk of injuries.

However, it is crucial to emphasize that Handanovic’s absence does not imply a decline in his abilities or his role within the team. His experience, leadership, and influence in the dressing room are invaluable assets that cannot be quantified purely based on playing time. Handanovic’s professionalism and dedication are acknowledged by both his teammates and the coaching staff, and his input in training sessions and matches is just as important, if not more, than his time on the pitch.

In conclusion, Handanovic’s absence from the starting lineup may be due to several reasons. Whether it is to provide his understudy with valuable game time, tactical considerations, injury management, or simply to manage his workload, the decision ultimately rests with the manager. While Handanovic’s presence between the posts is undoubtedly missed, his influence and contributions off the pitch continue to make him an integral part of the team.