After winning the Copa del Rey against Real Madrid, Barça is excited again. Hansi Flick's team is already focused on the big challenge of the season: the Champions League semifinal against Inter Milan. The first clash will be this Wednesday at Montjuïc and just when it was most needed, news arrives that relieves everyone.
Balde's Recovery
The young left-back hasn't played since April 12, when he injured his hamstring against Leganés in LaLiga. A painful absence. Since then, he has missed four important matches, including the cup final against the eternal rival.
But the ordeal seems to be over. Balde has overcome the most delicate part of the recovery, and this week will be key to defining his return.
The club knows it: no risks can be taken. Hamstrings are treacherous, and a relapse could sideline him for the rest of the season.
Key Meeting and Important Decisions
According to the newspaper AS, a meeting will be held this Monday between the coaching staff, the medical department, and Balde himself. The objective: to assess his physical condition and decide when he will play again. Flick is clear: he wants him, but not at any cost.
If all goes well, it is not ruled out that he will have minutes against Inter. Although another option is to reserve him for the league match against Real Valladolid and have him at full strength for the return leg of the semifinal in Milan. In any scenario, everything indicates that he will step on the field this week.
Flick Breathes: He Needs Balde
Balde's return is more than timely. In his absence, Gerard Martín has performed well, even starting in the final against Madrid. Héctor Fort has also played, another young player making his way, but neither has the speed, depth, and imbalance that Balde offers.
Flick knows that to stop Inter, he needs the best from his team, and Balde, although still young, is already a key piece in the scheme. His presence not only strengthens the defense but also provides offensive options. He is a player who changes games.
Time to Believe
Barça reaches the semifinals in a good emotional moment. The Copa del Rey has restored confidence to a team that seemed adrift just a month ago. And now, with Balde back, Flick has one more reason to believe.
Montjuïc will be a cauldron this Wednesday. Inter won't make it easy, but Barça is ready. The light has returned, and with it, the hope of reaching another European final.