According to reports, Hansi Flick and Simone Inzaghi, the managers of Barcelona and Inter Milan, have shown their determination to reach the final and make history by making significant changes to their lineups for the second leg of the Champions League semifinal on Tuesday. After a thrilling 3-3 draw in the first leg at Montjuïc Stadium, both teams rested key players in their recent Serie A and La Liga matches to focus all their energy on this decisive clash at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium (San Siro). A detailed report from Marca outlines the strategies of both managers and the importance of this match.

Barcelona Dreaming of a Ninth Final and Historic Treble

Barcelona aims to reach their ninth Champions League final in Milan, with their ultimate goal being a historic treble (La Liga, Champions League, and Copa del Rey) this season. The team has previously reached finals in 1961 (Bern), 1986 (Seville), 1992 (Wembley), 1994 (Athens), 2006 (Paris), 2009 (Rome), 2011 (Wembley), and 2015 (Berlin), securing five titles. Despite this, they trail Real Madrid, AC Milan, Bayern Munich, Juventus, and Liverpool in total finals. To boost their chances, Hansi Flick made sweeping changes to his lineup against Real Valladolid in La Liga, fielding only Gerard Martín and Pedri, who had played in the Copa del Rey final and the first leg against Inter.

Flick’s Strategy: Resting Stars and Managing Injuries

Flick made nine changes against Valladolid, bringing on stars like Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Frenkie de Jong, and Dani Olmo in the second half to secure a win that virtually confirmed Barcelona’s La Liga title. This approach highlights Flick’s focus on preparing for the Inter clash. Most of Barcelona’s key players were rested, and some injured players may return. Robert Lewandowski, recovering from a left thigh injury, might be available but is unlikely to start. Flick, considering upcoming crucial matches like El Clásico on May 11 at Montjuïc, is not taking any risks.

Inzaghi’s Revolution in Inter’s Lineup

Inter has adopted a similar approach for this historic match, which could return them to the Champions League final. The Nerazzurri have reached six finals, last appearing in 2022-23 against Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, but have three titles to their name. Inzaghi went even further than Flick by making 10 changes against Hellas Verona, keeping only center-back Yann Bisseck from the first leg against Barcelona. This decision, aimed at preserving energy for the clash with Barcelona, demonstrates Inzaghi’s determination to reach the final at the Allianz Arena in Munich on May 31.

Uncertainty Over Lautaro and Plans to Stop Barcelona

Inzaghi faces a major challenge in attack: Inter captain Lautaro Martínez missed the Verona match due to a left thigh strain, and his availability for the Barcelona clash remains uncertain. His condition is being assessed daily, but Barcelona believes the Argentine striker, injured in the first leg, will likely play. Inter hopes that with the support of San Siro fans, they can match Barcelona’s intensity. This match promises not only spectacular football but also a chance for one of these teams to make history and reach the Champions League final.