Barcelona head coach, Hansi Flick, has confirmed that Wojciech Szczesny will retain his place in goal for their Champions League semi-final first leg clash against Inter Milan tonight.
Despite the return of Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who has been sidelined since suffering a patella tendon injury in his right knee last September, Szczesny will start between the sticks at the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium.
The Polish international has delivered solid performances in Andre ter Stegen’s absence and is now being rewarded with continued Champions League duty.
“[Szczesny] will play in the Champions League and maybe we change in La Liga,” Flick said during his pre-match press briefing. “We will see that later, but Szczesny will play in the Champions League.”
Barcelona are also facing the challenge of missing star striker Robert Lewandowski, who remains sidelined with a hamstring injury he picked up earlier this month.
The Polish forward also missed the Copa del Rey final victory over Real Madrid and is unavailable for tonight’s match.
Ferran Torres is expected to lead the attack in Lewandowski’s absence, with Raphinha and young talent Lamine Yamal offering support from the wings.
Dani Olmo looks set to operate in the playmaker role, though Flick mentioned Fermin Lopez as a possible alternative.
“Fermin is always an option,” the German coach added. “On Saturday we opted for Olmo, but he can start the game. He did a very good job and we need him. He always gives his maximum and he is at a very good level.”
With Alejandro Balde ruled out due to a hamstring injury, Gerard Martin is likely to continue at left-back.
Expected Barcelona Starting XI: Szczesny; Kounde, Cubarsi, Martinez, Martin; De Jong, Pedri; Yamal, Olmo, Raphinha; Torres
Unavailable: Lewandowski, Balde, Casado, Bernal
Kick-off: 8pm BST, Wednesday, April 30, 2025
