Inter Milan faces a significant hurdle going into their UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg against FC Barcelona on Tuesday. Star forward Lautaro Martinez is expected to be unavailable for the crucial match in Milan. The Argentine suffered a muscular injury during the first leg played in Barcelona, which concluded with both teams level after a 3-3 draw.
Martinez was forced off at halftime in the initial encounter due to the issue. While Inter maintains a glimmer of hope regarding their captain`s fitness, his participation in the upcoming game remains highly doubtful as his condition is monitored daily.
The club provided an update on Friday confirming the nature of the injury. Following medical examinations, it was determined that Martinez has sustained an elongation of the flexor muscles in his left thigh. The statement reiterated that his recovery would be reviewed on a day-by-day basis.
Who Could Step Up in Lautaro`s Absence?
Lautaro Martinez has been instrumental for Inter throughout the season, netting 21 goals in 47 appearances across all competitions. His potential absence is a major blow and necessitates a change in strategy for coach Simone Inzaghi, especially considering fellow striker Marcus Thuram only recently returned from his own muscular problem ahead of the first leg.
The most probable candidate to fill Martinez`s spot in the starting lineup is Mehdi Taremi. The former FC Porto player came on to replace Martinez in the second half of the first leg and put in a positive performance, suggesting he is capable of contributing. However, Taremi`s debut season at Inter, following his free transfer arrival in summer 2024, has been underwhelming in terms of goals, with only three scored across all competitions so far.
Options for Inzaghi are somewhat restricted. Joaquin Correa is not included in Inter`s Champions League squad list. This leaves Marko Arnautovic as the only other dedicated striker available alongside Thuram if Taremi is not selected.
Some observers have speculated about a tactical shift, potentially involving midfielder Davide Frattesi playing in a more advanced role behind Thuram in a more defensive setup. However, given Inzaghi`s consistent reliance on the 3-5-2 formation throughout his tenure at Inter over the past four seasons, a significant tactical change for the most important fixture of the season is widely considered highly improbable.
