Inter Milan Ready to Face Barcelona in Champions League Semifinal

Ahead of the Champions League semifinal against Barcelona, coach Simone Inzaghi has urged his squad to forget the disappointing results of last week. Inter Milan, who recently suffered three consecutive defeats for the first time since 2017, will play the first leg at the Olympic Stadium in Rome.

Inzaghi Asks Players to Refocus After Recent Setbacks

“Forget everything about last week. For four years, these players have done extraordinary things and they keep doing them,” said Inzaghi during the pre-match press conference.

Thuram’s Potential Return and Pavard’s Absence

Positive news comes from Marcus Thuram, who might make a return to the starting lineup after training with the team. However, Benjamin Pavard is confirmed absent for the match.

The expected partnership of Thuram and Lautaro Martinez—who have scored 38 goals combined this season—could pose a serious threat to Barcelona’s defense.

“We are confident and looking forward to that possibility. In three years, we’ve reached two Champions League semifinals,” said Martinez during the press conference.

Second Leg in Milan and Final Implications

The second leg will be held in Milan next week, with the aggregate winner facing either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal in the Champions League final in Munich.