While Barcelona’s current focus is on their La Liga match against Real Valladolid, there is significant anticipation for their upcoming UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan.

In this context, Rafa Benitez, former Real Madrid manager, spoke about Inter Milan’s chances against Barcelona and the potential impact of Lautaro Martinez’s absence.

Benitez first addressed Lautaro’s possible absence: “If Lautaro cannot recover, Inzaghi will lose a lot, but remember, he was absent in the second half of the first leg, yet opportunities were not wasted.”

Inter did not have Lautaro in the second half of the first leg as the Argentine had to be substituted.

Benitez praised Inter’s wingers, adding: “Inter knew how to attack Barcelona from the flanks and were physically strong, dangerous in set-pieces and counter-attacks, especially through the wings and sometimes from deep.”

Home advantage is a contributing factor, but Barcelona is accustomed to intense spaces and won’t be affected.

Their style is clear—possession, depth, intelligent players with high quality; this was evident in their Copa del Rey match against Real Madrid, even if they looked tired at the end against Inter.”

Benitez also added that the expertise of Simone Inzaghi or Hansi Flick won’t matter as both teams have distinct playing styles.

He said: “Neither Inzaghi nor Flick will be decisive, as the 3-3 draw in the first leg showed. But it’s a mistake to rush and leave spaces. Barcelona tends to take more risks, but Inter has physical and mental strength.”

Finally, when asked about Barcelona’s rising star Lamine Yamal, who scored a brilliant goal in the first leg, Benitez replied: “We are witnessing a player who will make history. He has the talent and mindset of Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. The key is for him to remain humble and competitive—then he will be an exceptional star.”