Predicted Barcelona Starting XI vs Inter – Champions League Semi-Final.
Barcelona vs Inter: Predicted Lineup for Champions League Semifinal First Leg
Barcelona will welcome Inter Milan to the Olympic Stadium on Wednesday night in the first leg of their Champions League semifinal tie, as they continue their pursuit of a first European crown in over a decade.
Fresh off their Copa del Rey triumph on Sunday—adding to January’s Supercopa de España title—the Blaugrana are riding a wave of momentum. European glory remains the ultimate goal for Hansi Flick’s side, and reaching the final will require navigating two high-stakes encounters against a dangerous, albeit inconsistent, Inter Milan team.
Despite Inter’s recent struggles, Barcelona enter as firm favorites to advance, but any hint of complacency could be costly. The Catalan side will aim to establish a commanding lead ahead of what promises to be a hostile second leg at the iconic San Siro.
Predicted Barcelona Starting XI vs Inter (4-2-3-1)
GK: Wojciech Szczesny – With Marc-André ter Stegen only recently returning to the bench after a long-term injury, the Polish goalkeeper may retain his place for this crucial clash—though Ter Stegen’s return to the starting XI is likely imminent.
RB: Jules Koundé – The Frenchman was Barcelona’s Copa del Rey hero, netting the winner in extra time. He’ll once again be relied upon defensively, even if he doesn’t expect to be in the spotlight this time around.
CB: Pau Cubarsí – The composed 18-year-old has shown remarkable maturity in high-pressure matches. He’ll need to be at his sharpest to contain the threat of Lautaro Martínez, and potentially Marcus Thuram, if the French striker recovers in time.
CB: Iñigo Martínez – Likely preferred over Ronald Araújo for his experience, the 33-year-old veteran has been a steady presence this season and will partner Cubarsí in central defense.
LB: Gerard Martín – With Alejandro Balde nearing a return from injury, Barcelona may opt to manage his minutes cautiously. Martín is expected to start again at left-back.
DM: Frenkie de Jong – The Dutchman will play a vital role in breaking up Inter’s fluid midfield. He’ll need to be sharp against the trio of Barella, Çalhanoğlu, and Mkhitaryan.
DM: Pedri – Fresh off a superb strike in El Clásico, Pedri will look to dictate tempo and support the attack as Barcelona’s midfield engine.
RW: Lamine Yamal – The teenage sensation continues to impress, having added two assists in the cup final. He’ll look to exploit the space left by Inter wing-back Federico Dimarco on the right flank.
AM: Dani Olmo – A consistent creative force in La Liga, Olmo is expected to bring his goal-scoring form to the European stage and serve as a key link between midfield and attack.
LW: Raphinha – The Brazilian has been outstanding in Europe this season, leading the competition in goal contributions. Inter will need to contain him to have any chance of advancing.
ST: Ferran Torres – With Robert Lewandowski sidelined by a hamstring injury, Torres steps up once more. His recent form, including a crucial equalizer in the cup final, offers hope that he can fill the void up front.
