FC Barcelona have received a significant boost for the UEFA Champions League semifinal against Inter Milan after a key star has recovered from injury.
Barcelona are set to visit the San Siro for the second leg of their UEFA Champions League semifinal against Inter Milan, following a thrilling 3–3 draw in the first leg at the Montjuic Olympic Stadium. With the tie still up for grabs, Barca have received a major boost after a key player has recovered from his injury for the game.
The first leg delivered one of the most dramatic encounters of the 2024–25 season, with a goal inside the opening 30 seconds and nonstop action throughout. To advance to the final in Munich without the need for penalties, the Spanish giants must secure a positive result in Italy—and now they’ll be able to count on one of their stars.
Robert Lewandowski has returned to full training and is expected to be included in Hansi Flick’s matchday squad. The Polish striker was seen participating in Sunday’s training session without limitations, signaling that he’s ready to rejoin the team after a quicker-than-expected recovery.
Lewandowski suffered a left thigh injury (semitendinosus muscle) on April 19 in a La Liga clash against Celta de Vigo and was subbed off in the 79th minute. Originally ruled out for nearly a month, he has made his comeback in just two weeks and could play a role off the bench in Milan.
In his absence, Ferran Torres stepped up impressively, scoring in the first leg against Inter and netting again in the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid. Despite Lewandowski’s return, Torres is expected to remain in the starting XI, with the veteran striker likely to begin the match among the substitutes.
Barcelona still without Balde
Barcelona will be facing key weeks nearing the end of the season between the Champions League and La Liga, and recovering Lewandowski are great news for the team. However, the Blaugrana will still have to wait on Alejandro Balde.
Balde suffered a distal injury to the femoral biceps in his left thigh during a match against Leganés three weeks ago. Unlike Lewandowski, his recovery has not progressed as hoped. Given his recent injury history, he is not expected to be available for selection on Tuesday.
In Balde’s absence, Flick faces a decision at left back. Gerard Martin—who earned MVP honors in Saturday’s win over Real Valladolid—is a natural fit for the role. However, Iñigo Martinez, who filled in during the second half of the first leg, also remains an option.
