Lewandowski Back from Injury, But Will Start on the Bench Against Inter Milan
Barcelona’s star striker, Robert Lewandowski, is fit again after a hamstring injury, but he won’t start the match against Inter Milan on Tuesday. Coach Hansi Flick confirmed that Lewandowski will begin the game on the bench in their Champions League semi-final second leg.
The 36-year-old Polish forward has scored 40 goals for Barcelona this season. He got injured during a 4-3 win over Celta Vigo on April 19 and missed the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid and the first leg against Inter.
Flick shared good news during a press conference: “We talked yesterday and everything looks good. Lewandowski is feeling much better than expected. He’s ready to sit on the bench and can come on if we need him.”
Barcelona is excited to have him back as they aim for their first Champions League final in ten years. The first leg ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw. However, they’ll miss key defenders Jules Kounde and Alejandro Balde due to injuries.
Flick didn’t say who would replace them but suggested he might use centre-backs Ronald Araujo and Eric Garcia, or give younger players like Hector Fort or Gerard Martin a chance.
Barcelona struggled to stop Inter’s fast counter-attacks in the first leg, especially Denzel Dumfries, who scored twice and assisted once.
“As coaches, we look closely at everything. We may have to make some changes to defend better,” Flick said. “Football is not simple — we need the right plan, good changes, and players who show their best on the pitch.”
Despite injury troubles, Barcelona is chasing three trophies this season. They’re unbeaten in LaLiga since December and are currently top of the table, four points ahead of Real Madrid.
After the Inter match, they will face Real Madrid again in a huge league game on Sunday that could decide the title.