Barcelona manager Hansi Flick says striker “could be there” for the Champions League semi-final second leg at the San Siro
Barcelona boss Hansi Flick has delivered a promising update on Robert Lewandowski’s recovery from a hamstring injury. It raises hopes that the Poland international could return in time for the decisive Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan.
Lewandowski, who limped off during Barcelona’s dramatic 4-3 win over Celta Vigo in late April, has been working around the clock to recover fitness ahead of Tuesday’s crunch clash at the San Siro.
With the tie balanced at 3-3, his return could be huge for the Barcelona attack as they try to reach the club’s first Champions League final in a decade. Speaking to the press on Friday, Flick remained cautiously optimistic.
“Yes, Robert could be there against Inter, he’s doing well and progressing,” he said. “He’s doing much better than we thought, but we have to wait. We know he’s a professional; he might be there this Tuesday.”
The 35-year-old has been nothing short of prolific this campaign, scoring 40 goals in 48 appearances and reminding Europe that he is still one of the continent’s elite forwards. His presence would add more weight to a frontline that already boasts the brilliance of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha.
Barcelona face Real Valladolid on Saturday, with the league title still hanging in the balance. Flick’s side hold a slender four-point advantage over Real Madrid, whom they face at the Estadi Olimpic in a fortnight. With just a handful of matches remaining, each point will be decisive in their bid for a first La Liga crown since 2019.
Barcelona also haven’t reached a Champions League final since their 2015 triumph under Luis Enrique. Should Lewandowski be declared fit, his presence could do much to tilt the tie in Barcelona’s favour.
