Barcelona prepare for unfamiliar challenge in UCL battle against Inter | OneFootball

Barcelona have been in brilliant form lately. In fact, since the start of the year, they have only lost once in 28 matches across all competitions. That kind of run builds confidence, but the real test comes now.

As they prepare to face Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League semi-final, the challenge is as much mental as it is physical.

This tie is unfamiliar ground for most of the squad. Apart from Frenkie de Jong, none of the available players have ever played in a Champions League semi-final.

And even for De Jong, his only experience at this stage came when he played for Ajax, not Barcelona.

Robert Lewandowski, one of the few players with experience at this level, is out with injury. Marc-Andre ter Stegen is also unavailable, as he is not registered for the competition.

Another experienced name, Andreas Christensen, is unlikely to feature due to fitness concerns, despite having played against top clubs like Real Madrid during his time at Chelsea.

Youth, hunger and a chance to prove themselves

No Barcelona player available for the Inter clash has played in a UCL semi-final apart from De Jong. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

In turn, Barcelona will rely on their young talent to step up. While most of them have not been in a Champions League semi-final before, several have played in big games for their national teams.

Players like Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Jules Kounde, and Dani Olmo have shown they can handle pressure. But this is a different level, and Inter Milan will push them to the limit.

The good thing about young players is their bravery. They are not afraid to take risks, and that could work in Barcelona’s favour. Still, experience matters, especially in two-legged ties where every moment counts.

That is where coach Hansi Flick and the few senior players will have to guide the group through tough patches.

If Barcelona want to reach the final in Munich, they will have to stay smart and focused across both legs. This is their chance to make history.