Big boost for Barcelona as Inter Milan confirm injury to key star; doubtful for second leg | OneFootball

Lautaro Martinez was one of the biggest attacking enforcers for Inter Milan in their brave performance against Barcelona, which ended 3-3.

However, the Argentine’s night was cut short when he had to be replaced at half-time due to an injury.

Big boost for Barcelona

As reported by MARCA, Inter Milan have confirmed the injury of Martinez, who has picked up strain in his left thigh.

The star striker, who has scored 21 goals in all competitions this season, went through tests and assessment in Lozano. Inter Milan confirmed that the striker “will be assessed day by day.”

This is a concerning sign for Inter Milan, who have solely relied on Martinez’s attacking prowess to get them over the line in tough matches this season.

The report adds that Martinez is certain to miss Inter Milan’s next league game against Verona tomorrow. His presence in the second leg also remains doubtful.

Martinez’s night against Barcelona was cut short due to an injury. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

However, the Italian giants have not completely lost hope, especially after ruling out any muscle injury, which could have sidelined the forward for a longer period.

For now, Inter will closely monitor Martinez’s recovery, hoping that the Argentine can make it in time for the semi-final second-leg clash against Barcelona on Tuesday.

Should Martinez miss out against Barcelona, coach Simone Inzaghi might have to improvise, as far as his attacking unit is concerned.

Mehdi Taremi and Marko Arnautovic are two potential options Inzaghi can rely upon in his bid to replace Martinez.

While both forwards can offer the X-factor going forward, it remains to be seen whether or not they have the zest and quality to truly trouble the Barcelona defence.