No Sign of Polish Star in Starting Lineup
Flick’s Decision: Torres Replaces Lewandowski!
Hans-Dieter Flick plans to start Ferran Torres in the lineup against Inter, with no sign of Robert Lewandowski.
According to reports, Flick has revealed almost all his cards ahead of the crucial match against Inter. Tomorrow night, Barcelona will face Inter at San Siro in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinals, needing only a win to advance—unless the match goes to penalties.
The German coach has a clear idea of his starting lineup for this crucial match and has a top weapon hidden for the second half: Robert Lewandowski.
Lewandowski, who suffered a left hamstring injury two weeks ago in the 4-3 win against Celta Vigo, returned to group training yesterday after a long period of individual sessions and will travel with the team to Italy today. However, Mundo Deportivo claims he will not start. Ferran Torres is expected to lead the attack, but Lewandowski could be a key substitute in the second half.
The situation is entirely different for Alejandro Balde. The Barcelona left-back, suffering from a hamstring injury, remains at high risk of re-injury, and Flick is reluctant to take chances—especially with crucial matches remaining, including El Clásico against Real Madrid on May 11 at Montjuïc, the derby against Espanyol, the home game against Villarreal, the match at San Mamés, and possibly the Champions League final on May 31 against PSG or Arsenal.
In the absence of Balde and Jules Koundé, Barcelona’s defensive lineup is expected to be: Marc-André ter Stegen in goal, Eric García on the right, Pau Cubarsí and Iñigo Martínez as center-backs. Gerard Martín will likely play on the left, despite being the only current starter who played the full 90 minutes against Celta Vigo.
In midfield, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong—who each played only 45 minutes in this week’s La Liga match—will form the double pivot. Lamine Yamal and Raphinha will be on the wings, with Dani Olmo likely playing as the playmaker behind the striker. He played only 28 minutes against Celta, while Fermín López played the full 90 and could be a reliable option if extra time is needed.
Barcelona views the match against Inter as a final and, with a tactical coach, a motivated star in the second half, and an energetic lineup, has the chance to turn the tide in their favor.