Barcelona possible Champions League starting XI against Inter Milan
Balde’s absence on the left flank and the set-piece issues in the first leg open up the possibility of fielding a surprise team.
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Hansi Flick has practically finalised his starting eleven for Tuesday’s match against Milan. Only one position remains uncertain, particularly after it was confirmed that Alejandro Balde will miss the game. Currently, two players are in contention for the left flank: Gerard Martín and Íñigo Martínez. For Martín, it’s his natural position, while Martínez would need to adapt to the role.
Flick’s recent substitutions—against both Real Madrid and Inter—offer a strong clue as to his likely choice. On both occasions, he replaced Martín with Íñigo at halftime, which suggests the Basque centre-back may start on the left.
Deploying Íñigo on the left would also allow Ronald Araújo—Barcelona’s most dominant aerial presence—to return to the starting lineup alongside Pau Cubarsí. This change could be crucial, especially considering Inter scored two of their three goals from set pieces at Montjuïc.
With Jules Koundé sidelined, Eric García is expected to start on the right, while Wojciech Szczesny will reclaim his spot in goal.
The team will be hoping for a stronger showing from the Polish keeper after he conceded three goals from three shots on target in the first leg.
The rest of the lineup is set to remain unchanged from the first leg a week ago: Frenkie de Jong will anchor the midfield, flanked by Pedri and Dani Olmo. The front three will once again feature Lamine Yamal—Inter’s main concern after his brilliant display at Montjuïc—alongside Ferran Torres and Raphinha.
All in. 👐 pic.twitter.com/TeCoyG6K0g
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) May 5, 2025
Robert Lewandowski, remarkably recovered from a hamstring injury in just two weeks, will be available off the bench.
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