Barcelona face a major defensive dilemma ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan at the San Siro. Hansi Flick’s side, who battled to a thrilling 3-3 draw in the first leg, will need to navigate the return fixture without several key defensive players, most notably Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde.
Hopes had been high that Balde could return in time for Tuesday’s showdown after reports suggested he might feature against Real Valladolid in La Liga. However, the 21-year-old full-back was left out of the squad entirely and has yet to resume full training, casting serious doubt over his availability for the trip to Italy. Instead, the target now appears to be a return in next weekend’s highly anticipated Clasico.
Kounde’s absence due to a hamstring injury suffered in the first leg adds further strain to Flick’s defensive plans. With both starting full-backs potentially out, Barcelona’s manager will need to make bold decisions, possibly turning again to youngster Gerard Martin at left-back. The academy product impressed against Valladolid and was even named MVP, but his lack of experience at this level remains a concern especially against a clinical Inter side.
Flick is likely to opt for a back four, with Ronald Araújo and Andreas Christensen anchoring the central defense. Eric Garcia could be pushed to right-back in Kounde’s absence, while Martin may retain his spot on the left if Balde is officially ruled out. The midfield could drop deeper to provide extra cover, with Frenkie de Jong and Pedri expected to play key roles in protecting the back line.
In attack, there’s better news, as Robert Lewandowski is tipped to return after his recent hamstring scare. His experience and goal-scoring threat will be vital as Barcelona chases a place in the final.
Despite the defensive setbacks, Flick remains focused on maintaining attacking intent, hoping his side’s forward momentum can outweigh the vulnerabilities at the back. Tuesday’s clash at the San Siro promises to be a tense, high-stakes affair, with Barcelona’s season hanging in the balance.
How Flick adapts his backline may prove decisive in whether the Catalan giants reach the Champions League final or fall agonizingly short once again.
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