Barcelona wants to channel the momentum of El Clasico victory to Inter game

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick, who took charge in May 2024 after winning the Champions League with Bayern Munich in 2019-2020, addressed the press ahead of the crucial UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg against Inter. Flick emphasized that the team is "focussed 100%" on the Inter match, despite recent fixture congestion and Copa fatigue.

He believes a key factor providing momentum is the recent victory against Real Madrid, stating that win "can push us" forward for the upcoming challenge. Flick acknowledged the difficulty of the opponent, describing Inter as "a very complicated rival" with "one of the best defenses in Europe." He also highlighted their "very good midfield" and "strong forwards," warning specifically about their "very dangerous" transitions.

Flick stressed that the focus is solely on the first leg. Reaching the Champions League final, which Barcelona last achieved when they won the competition in 2014-2015, is seen as "a dream," and the team understands the immense importance of this semi-final tie. Despite having less recovery time than Inter, who played on Sunday, Flick noted that the training session was positive and everyone is concentrated.

They reviewed the Real Madrid game to identify areas for improvement, knowing they must show their "best version in the two matches." The second leg will be played in Milano on May 6th.

Regarding player selection, Flick confirmed clearly that Wojciech Szczesny "will play the Champions League." He left the possibility open for Marc-André ter Stegen to play some LaLiga matches this season, but the European goalkeeper situation is decided for now. On rotations, Flick stated it would be decided on matchday based on player recovery, recognizing that in a Champions League semi-final, "everybody wants to give their best level."

Flick noted the team isn't complacent; "everyone is focused, knows how important this semifinal is." He reiterated the Real Madrid win as a potential boost. He understands they "have to work very hard to reach the final" and acknowledged that some Inter players might see this as a final opportunity, motivating them to give "cien por cien."

Discussing tactics, Flick mentioned training sessions despite limited time, focusing on recovery first, then tactical work. Against Inter's system, they have talked about necessary changes, emphasizing the need to "protect and cover spaces," maintain possession, minimize errors, and defend well.

Flick dismissed the relevance of Inter's recent domestic defeats saying “It's different. The Champions is a great opportunity... Everyone gives 100%. Past doesn't matter” focusing entirely on the high stakes of the current competition. Inter were runners-up in the 2023 Champions League final under Simone Inzaghi, who has managed them since 2021, adding another layer of recent European history to the tie. Flick's focus remains strictly on his team's performance and giving their all in the present moment to achieve the dream of reaching the final.