Flick confirms Barcelona plan for Lewandowski vs Inter | OneFootball

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick says Robert Lewandowski will be available from the bench against Inter and insists his players must ‘enjoy’ a Champions League semifinal against the Nerazzurri.

Lewandowski missed the first leg semifinal last week, but has been included in the squad for tomorrow’s fixture at San Siro.

Lewandowski will start on Barcelona bench vs Inter

“Lewandowski feels good and is available from the bench if we need him,” Flick said at a pre-match press conference on Monday via Mundo Deportivo.

“Injuries cannot be changed. Koundé and Balde’s absences are important, but we have players like Eric, Hector and Araujo who can play.”

Balde had also missed the first leg, while Koundé sustained an injury during last week’s match against the Nerazzurri.

Spain star Lamine Yamal had a big role in a spectacular 3-3 draw last week.

“The team is what matters. There are exceptional players, and Yamal is a genius. He helped us on Wednesday, and seeing him was great, but he has to prove it every time,” Flick continued via Marca.

“We want to reach the final; hopefully, everyone will be at the highest level.”

VALLADOLID, SPAIN – MAY 03: Hansi Flick, Head Coach of FC Barcelona, looks on prior to the LaLiga match between Real Valladolid CF and FC Barcelona at Jose Zorrilla on May 03, 2025 in Valladolid, Spain. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Asked on whether his Barcelona side lack experience in these games, Flick replied: “We’ve won two titles, and the players rise to the occasion in these matches. It’s a semifinal and we must enjoy it. The players never give up; it’s a good position to be in.

“They must enjoy the match. It’s great to play in a Champions League semifinal against Inter at this level. I don’t want to put pressure on my players; they must enjoy it. I want them to be well-connected and play with a fantastic style.

“On Wednesday, they [Inter] took advantage of every opportunity; it was incredible,” Flick added.

“Tomorrow we have to work on defence and close spaces.

Flick warns Barcelona about Inter

“Everyone wants to reach the final. Inter are strong defensively and in transition. It’s important not to give them opportunities in midfield or the last line. They know very well how to play.”

Barcelona trained on the San Siro turf on Monday afternoon, while Inter worked at Appiano Gentile, seeing Lautaro Martinez complete a full training session with his teammates.

The Argentine is expected to start tomorrow, while Benjamin Pavard could miss the game as he hasn’t yet recovered from an ankle injury.