Tue May 06 19:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Barcelona’s Lewandowski Returns, But Balde Out for Crucial Champions League Clash
**Milan, Italy** – Robert Lewandowski is back in the Barcelona squad for Tuesday’s crucial Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan, manager Hansi Flick confirmed. The Polish striker, who has scored 40 goals this season, has recovered from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for the last four matches, including the Copa del Rey final. However, his return won’t be a starting one, as Flick stated Lewandowski will begin the match on the bench. “Everything goes in the right way,” Flick said. “He’s good, much better than we expected. He’s ready for the bench.”
Despite Lewandowski’s return, Barcelona will be without left-back Alejandro Balde, who is still recovering from a hamstring injury sustained on April 12th. Balde will miss the Inter match but is expected to be fit for Sunday’s El Clásico against Real Madrid. Right-back Jules Koundé is also out due to a hamstring injury suffered in the first leg.
Flick emphasized the importance of enjoying the occasion, highlighting Barcelona’s unexpected treble run this season. “When we started the season, no one had any idea what we achieved until now,” he said. “Now we win two titles already. Now we have important weeks, important matches to win two more. It’s a good thing. I want my team to appreciate that, enjoy it.”
However, Flick acknowledged the significant challenge posed by Inter, particularly their set-piece threat. “The set pieces we have to defend much better,” he stated. “But we will change some things… you will see what.”
The first leg ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw, leaving everything to play for in this decisive match at the San Siro. The winner will advance to the Champions League final in Munich on May 31st, to face either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal. The absence of key players adds significant pressure to Barcelona’s quest for a place in the final.
First Piper 