Tomorrow, the Champions League returns for FC Barcelona fans with a highly tense duel. Barça and Borussia Dortmund face each other in a decisive match. The tie appears quite balanced, but the culé team is favored thanks to the presence of such decisive players as Raphinha, Pedri, Lamine Yamal, or Lewandowski.
Barça arrives at its best moment of the season, with great sensations. Meanwhile, Dortmund carries doubts and a lack of consistency. Their recent performance hasn't convinced their fans or the press.
Additionally, the Germans have lost their best defender at the worst moment. Schlotterbeck has torn the meniscus and won't play anymore this season. A very sensitive loss to stop Barça's attack.
Flick, meanwhile, faces the duel with some uncertainties. In the midfield, Dani Olmo won't be able to start due to physical discomfort. Everything points to Gavi returning to the line-up after his great performance against Betis last weekend.
Flick Clears Doubts in Defense
However, the big news comes in defense, where a significant absence was expected. For days, it was feared that a key piece wouldn't make it to the duel. But the doctors have given the green light just in time.
Finally, the coaching staff will be able to count on Iñigo Martínez from the start. The center-back has left behind the discomfort he was carrying. His presence completely changes Flick's defensive plan.
Iñigo Martínez Will Be the Leader of the Defense in Barça-Dortmund
The defensive duo will be the same as in previous matches: Cubarsí and Iñigo Martínez. Araújo, who had occupied the starting position during the absence of the '5', will return to the bench. The German coach trusts the solidity and ball distribution that both offer together.
Iñigo's recovery has been celebrated as great news in the locker room. His experience and leadership are key on nights like this. Additionally, he transmits a lot of calm to his younger teammates.
Flick has made it clear that he values his presence on the field greatly. Not only does he defend well, but he also helps in creating play from the back. His left foot provides balance and precision in the build-up, but also a lot of defensive solidity, key for Szczesny to be calm during the match.
Now, we just have to wait for the ball to roll. Barça and Dortmund are playing for a spot in the semifinals on a magical night. With Iñigo Martínez as the leader in the rearguard, the culé team dreams of continuing to advance in the Champions League.