Inter will miss Benjamin Parvard in defence, although Marcus Thuram’s return is welcome news for the club
Inter Milan have been dealt a significant blow in their Champions League semi-final first-leg clash against Barcelona, after defender Benjamin Pavard was ruled out due to an ankle injury.
The French international sustained the injury during Inter’s Serie A match against Roma on Sunday, where he was substituted in the 15th minute. Subsequent assessments have confirmed that he will be unable to feature in the crucial match against Barcelona at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys, according to Sky Sport.
Pavard has been a key figure in Simone Inzaghi’s defensive setup, operating as the right-sided centre-back in a back three. In his absence, Stefan de Vrij is likely to step into the role. Another possible replacement is the 24-year-old Yan Bisseck who has made ten appearances in the competition so far, although five of those were off the bench. Inzaghi is also much more likely to prefer the older and more experienced De Vrij.
In more positive news for Inter, forward Marcus Thuram has returned to group training after recovering from a muscle injury in his left thigh. His availability could bolster Inter’s attacking options, providing support alongside Lautaro Martinez.
Barcelona, meanwhile, will also be without key players. Striker Robert Lewandowski is sidelined with a hamstring injury sustained during the match against Celta Vigo earlier this month.
The Polish international has been instrumental in Barcelona’s Champions League campaign, scoring 11 goals in the competition this season. Left-back Alejandro Balde is also unavailable due to injury.
