After the epic victory in the Copa del Rey final, Barcelona had little time to celebrate the title. The challenges keep coming relentlessly, as the team faces Inter Milan tonight in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-final, a decisive encounter that forces coach Hansi Flick to make critical decisions with little time between matches.
In this context, according to information from the Spanish newspaper ‘El Nacional,’ the German coach is seriously considering two key changes. One is in the defensive line, where it is expected that Ronald Araujo, who has recently regained his fitness, will be included, possibly opening the door for a tactical shift with Inigo moving to left-back to cover for the injured Gerard Martin. The other change is likely to be in the attacking midfield, where Fermín López could replace Dani Olmo, who has just returned from injury and played several matches in a short period.
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In midfield, it is expected that both De Jong and Pedri will return to the starting lineup. Both are considered essential pillars in Flick’s plans, and it is unlikely that he will risk leaving the Dutch player out of such an important match, even with Gavi as an alternative.
As for the attack, it seems that the trio of Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Ferran Torres will continue to start. Despite the considerable effort in the La Cartuja match, the coaching staff believes their chemistry and speed will be key to breaking down Inter’s defense, one of the toughest in Europe.
