Barcelona is in Milan for the second leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan, with the first leg ending in a thrilling 3-3 draw. As the Blaugrana prepare for this crucial encounter on May 6, 2025, manager Hansi Flick has finalized his starting eleven, though not without some controversy and injury concerns.
One of the most significant absences for this match is Alejandro Balde, who will miss the game due to injury. This leaves Flick with a pivotal decision regarding the left-back position, where Gerard Martín and Íñigo Martínez are the primary candidates. While Martín is more familiar with the role, Martínez has been considered for the position based on Flick's recent tactical adjustments in previous matches against Real Madrid and Inter Milan, where he substituted Martín with Martínez at halftime. This suggests that Martínez may start on the left flank, allowing Ronald Araújo to return to the lineup alongside Pau Cubarsí in central defense.
Deploying Martínez on the left could be crucial, especially since Inter scored two of their three goals from set pieces during the first leg at Montjuïc. Barcelona's defense will need to be particularly vigilant in this area to avoid repeating those mistakes.
In the absence of Jules Koundé, who has been a stalwart in Barcelona's backline, Eric García is expected to start at right-back. García's inclusion comes after Koundé suffered a distal injury to the biceps femoris of his left thigh, which will keep him sidelined not only for this match but also for the upcoming Clásico against Real Madrid. The team will also be hoping for a stronger performance from goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, who conceded three goals from three shots on target in the first leg.
The midfield will see Frenkie de Jong anchoring the play, flanked by Pedri and Dani Olmo, who will look to provide creativity and control in the center of the park. Up front, the attacking trio will consist of Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, and Raphinha, with Torres stepping in as the lone striker over Robert Lewandowski, who is fit but will start on the bench. Lewandowski's rapid recovery from a hamstring injury is a positive sign for Barcelona, as they will need his experience and goal-scoring prowess as the match progresses.
Barcelona fans have expressed mixed feelings about the starting lineup, especially concerning the defensive setup and the absence of key players like Lewandowski and Araújo. Some supporters have taken to social media to voice their concerns, with one fan stating, "Lord Martin starting, just have to trust Flick," while another commented on the need for a solid defensive performance, especially during set pieces.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan's lineup remains largely unchanged from the first leg, with Lautaro Martínez recovering from injury and expected to start. The Italian side will be looking to capitalize on Barcelona's defensive vulnerabilities and take advantage of any set pieces that arise during the match. Benjamin Pavard has been ruled out due to an ankle injury, leaving Inter with a slight advantage in terms of squad depth.
As the teams prepare to clash at the iconic San Siro, the stakes couldn't be higher. Both sides are eager to secure a place in the final in Munich on May 31, 2025. With the aggregate score tied at 3-3, every moment will count, and fans can expect an intense and thrilling encounter.
Barcelona's confirmed starting XI for the match against Inter Milan is as follows: Szczesny in goal, with García, Cubarsí, Martínez, and Martín in defense. De Jong and Pedri will operate as central midfielders, while Olmo will play as the attacking midfielder. The front three will feature Yamal, Raphinha, and Torres.
As the match approaches, anticipation builds. Will Barcelona's tactical adjustments pay off, or will Inter capitalize on their home advantage? Fans around the world are eager to find out as this epic Champions League semi-final unfolds.
