Hansi Flick is preparing for the crucial second leg against Inter Milan, scheduled for next Tuesday at the San Siro, with a significant change to his starting lineup in mind, following the thrilling 3-3 draw in the first leg at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. This potential change could directly impact the Catalan team’s attacking effectiveness.
According to information from the Spanish newspaper El Nacional, the focus is on Dani Olmo, who started the first leg but failed to perform as expected. The Spanish international appeared uncomfortable throughout the match, committing several errors in dangerous areas and struggling to coordinate offensively with Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres. Although Flick has consistently shown strong support for Olmo since taking charge, he is now considering alternatives for a match that demands exceptional effort.
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The most prominent name at the moment is Fermín López, who has proven this season that he can make a significant impact off the bench, bringing clear energy to the midfield. During his appearance in the first leg, Fermín demonstrated character, intensity, and composure on the ball, qualities that have convinced Flick to seriously consider giving him a starting role at the San Siro.
The coaching staff believes Fermín is capable of executing a more aggressive high press and contributing offensively from deep positions — two key elements that will be essential at the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium. Barcelona will need sharp defensive focus, but also greater attacking efficiency, and the Andalusian’s physical presence could prove decisive against a team like Inter Milan, known for controlling the tempo of the game.
Fermín’s performance has significantly improved in recent months, making him one of Flick’s most trusted players in the second half of matches. With his powerful medium-range shots and intelligent movement into space, he could become the tactical surprise Flick is preparing to spring on Simone Inzaghi.
Dani Olmo has experienced a dip in form during the final stages of the season, largely due to recurring injuries that have affected his physical condition. Despite his undeniable technical talent, his current form has fallen short of expectations in high-stakes matches. In the first leg against Inter, he lacked precision in his passing and rarely posed a real threat to the opposition’s goal — a shortcoming that cannot be overlooked in a match that could decide a place in the Champions League final.
The final decision will become clearer during the upcoming training sessions, but it is evident that Dani Olmo’s place in the starting eleven is no longer secure, and Flick is seriously considering giving Fermín López a chance in a match that could define Barcelona’s entire season.
