Van Bronckhorst backs Ernst as Feyenoord fans vent after Inter defeat

Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s continued backing of goalkeeper Tjark Ernst has drawn an angry response from sections of the Feyenoord support after Tuesday’s 3-0 Champions League defeat by Internazionale.

Speaking to Ziggo Sport after the match, Van Bronckhorst described Ernst as a talented goalkeeper who had arrived from Germany’s second tier and still needed to adapt. He said Feyenoord’s policy was to recruit promising players, give them opportunities and help them develop. Supporters responding on fan platform FR12 questioned whether the first team was the right place for that process, according to Voetbalzone. Some called for second-choice goalkeeper Florian Kastenmeier to be given an opportunity, while others advocated signing a replacement in January and sending Ernst out on loan.

Van Bronckhorst nevertheless found some encouragement in Feyenoord’s display. He felt his players showed willingness, but said conceding the opening goal early hindered their chances and described Inter’s second as “killing” in comments carried by Voetbalzone. Any hope of a comeback then disappeared when the Italian side added a third after half-time.

The coach also highlighted Inter’s experience and compact defending. In contrast to Feyenoord’s earlier Champions League game against Barcelona, he said his team did not create clear chances after the interval. Van Bronckhorst believed Inter’s rapid retreat into a disciplined defensive shape required Feyenoord to be exceptionally precise, something the hosts could not achieve on the night.