Barcelona vs Inter Milan Champions League Semi-Final: Hansi Flick Warns of Inter Threat in Press Conference

Barcelona Boss Highlights Inter’s Strength, Szczesny’s Role, and Team Focus After Copa Del Rey Triumph.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick addressed the media speaking about the team’s focus and respect for Inter Milan despite their strong momentum ahead of their UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg clash. They are coming fresh off their Copa del Rey final victory over Real Madrid.

The Blaugrana will host Inter on Wednesday night at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. In the press conference ahead of this game, Flick acknowledged the emotional boost from Barca’s Copa del Rey win. However, he also emphasized that the Champions League presents a different kind of challenge. Flick said:

“We are only focused on the first leg and that is the first part of the objective. Inter will be very difficult, they are one of the best defensive sides in Europe. They have a great midfield and great full-backs. We have to be ready.”

🎙️ HANSI FLICK: “We're only focused on the first match. Inter is a very difficult opponent.” #BarçaInter @ChampionsLeague pic.twitter.com/3AkMA9Z5bN
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 29, 2025

He noted that while his players had endured extra time in the final, recovery had gone well. This certainly would assure the fans ahead of such an important match. Especially considering the tight fixtures. He said, “The players look good to me… We are already focused on Inter.”

Also Read: Barcelona vs Inter Preview, Team News, & Predictions

Team Selection

Marc-Andre ter Stegen has made a return from injury. However, in his absence, Wojciech Szczesny not only took care of the job, but also thrived at it. As a result, the German coach confirmed that Szczesny will still start in goal for this match as well. Otherwise, he didn’t reveal his plans for possible rotations. Flick said:

“Tek will play in the Champions League and maybe we change in La Liga… We’ll see tomorrow. We still have one day and we will see how the players recover.”

Flick praised Fermin Lopez, saying “Fermin is always an option… He always gives his maximum and he is at a very good level.” He also commended Jules Kounde for his performance against Madrid in the Copa final, saying, “Jules is a very professional player… he defended very well. He is a very important player.”

Also Read: Champions League Semi-Final First Leg: UCL 2024–25 Fixtures, Start Time, Streaming Details, and More

Tactical Outlook

He then acknowledged that even with such talents, Inter with their tactical strengths, particularly in midfield can be a big threat. He also acknowledged that whatever the result was against them in the group stage, doesn’t matter now. He is looking ahead for this leg. Flick said:

“They will have five players there and we have to protect the spaces. It’s very important to keep the ball and reduce mistakes… It doesn’t matter the games of the past and the last defeats… We have the mentality to win the first leg and be at our best.”

Reporters asked about the rumours that have surfaced that a potential contract renewal is coming for the coach until 2027. Flick dismissed the timing for such discussions as he said, “I think I will coach the team next year, yes… It’s not the right time to talk about it.”

Barcelona are heading into this game high from lifting the Copa del Rey title in their latest game. While they will get the confidence from that win, it still won’t be an easy game for the Catalan side. The German coach knows that and has guided his team with a win in this game in mind.

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Moumita Dutta

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Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.