Absent from the First Leg at Montjuïc
Thuram Misses Champions League Semi-Final
Marcus Thuram, Inter Milan’s forward, will miss at least the first leg of the Champions League semi-final against Barcelona due to a muscle injury sustained in the second-leg match against Bayern Munich.
According to reports, Inter Milan has suffered two consecutive goalless defeats following Thuram’s injury—first in Serie A against Bologna and then in the Coppa Italia against AC Milan. This situation has increased concerns for Simone Inzaghi, Inter’s manager, especially after recent medical reports indicated Thuram’s condition is worse than initially expected.
Thuram’s injury is more severe than anticipated. He trained separately from the team this week and only underwent recovery sessions with physiotherapists on Friday. According to Italian journalist Pasquale Guarro, Thuram only did light running in Saturday’s training session and did not participate in group drills.
Inzaghi and Inter’s medical staff do not want to take risks with the French international. The initial goal was to prepare him for the first leg against Barcelona, but hopes are now pinned on his return for the second leg on May 6 at Giuseppe Meazza. Even then, Thuram may not be in optimal condition due to lack of match fitness. He has been left out of the squad for the upcoming match against Roma, and his participation against Verona next week is also unlikely.
Thuram’s absence has significantly impacted Inter’s attack. The explosive forward, known for his ability to exploit spaces, high speed, and intense pressing, is exactly what Inzaghi demands from his team. Alongside Lautaro Martínez, Thuram has formed a formidable partnership, contributing 38 goals and 15 assists in all competitions this season, playing a key role in Inter’s success.