During a press conference on Monday ahead of a crucial Champions League semifinal match against Inter Milan, Hansi Flick reassured fans that Robert Lewandowski might play, but only if necessary. Consequently, supporters expected the 36-year-old striker to enter the game in the second half.
However, according to Spanish journalist Alex Pintanel from Relevo, Lewandowski has communicated with Flick and declared his readiness to start the match. Despite this, the medical staff at FC Barcelona prefers that the forward begin the game on the bench, considering he returned to action about a week earlier than initially anticipated.
Lewandowski suffered a hamstring injury in the match against Celta Vigo, which forced him to leave the pitch in the 78th minute of the thrilling 4-3 victory. Doctors have assessed that 15 days post-injury, he is fit to play after participating in just two training sessions with the team.
Pintanel also highlighted that during his time at Barcelona and Bayern Munich, Lewandowski has not been unavailable for more than a month, and this recent injury marks his first muscle setback of the year. So far this season, he has played in 48 matches, scoring 40 goals and providing three assists.
The upcoming match against Inter is particularly significant for both Lewandowski and Barcelona, as the Polish captain remains in contention for the Champions League top scorer trophy, trailing leader Serhou Guirassy by just two goals after he has been eliminated from the competition. Barcelona last reached the Champions League final a decade ago.
The semifinal match against Inter Milan is set to kick off on Tuesday, May 6, at 21:00, with live text coverage provided by WP SportoweFakty.
This game presents an exciting opportunity not just for Lewandowski to showcase his skills, but also for Barcelona to secure a spot in the final after a long wait, reviving hopes of adding another prestigious trophy to their cabinet.