Barcelona last lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy in 2015. Now, they head to Italy to face Inter Milan in the second leg of their semi-final clash, aiming to reach the Champions League final for the first time in a decade.
The decisive encounter will take place at San Siro, where both teams will fight for a coveted spot in the final. The first leg, played in Barcelona, ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw
Goalkeeper: Wojciech Szczęsny
Despite Andre Ter-Stegen’s return, former Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny will keep his place for the semi-final match. Szczęsny has been in excellent form between the posts, and manager Flick has confirmed that the former Juventus goalkeeper will be the one in goal.
Defence: Eric García, Ronald Araujo, Pau Cubarsí, and Iñigo Martínez
In an effort to keep key players fresh for what could be a 120-minute contest, Flick made nine changes to his starting lineup and still secured all three points against Real Valladolid over the weekend.
It’s expected Barcelona that Flick will stick with the back four that excelled during the second half of last week’s match. This means Eric García at right-back, with Ronald Araujo and Pau Cubarsí in central defence, and Iñigo Martínez at left-back. Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde will both miss out due to injury.
¡Nos vamos a Milán! ✈️🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/VQvXW0a4cn
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona_es) May 5, 2025
Midfield: Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, and Dani Olmo
While there has been plenty of focus on the defense, the midfield trio has drawn little attention. Dani Olmo played only a brief stint against Valladolid to ensure he’s fully prepared for this upcoming match, while both Frenkie de Jong and Pedri were given some minutes over the weekend and should be fit to play the full 90 minutes.
Although they won’t be starting in Milan, Fermín López and Gavi are expected to bring much-needed energy in the second half and possibly extra time.
Attack: Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, and Raphinha
Flick can count on his attacking trio to be well-rested and ready to shine in Italy, helping guide Barcelona to Munich. Lamine Yamal played just over 50 minutes, while Raphinha only featured in the second half of the Valladolid match.
Ferran Torres was fully rested for the game. Although Robert Lewandowski may be included in the squad, it’s unlikely he’ll start, though he could feature in the second half.
