Barça Has a Lot at Stake Against Borussia Dortmund. The Champions League is entering a decisive phase, and Hansi Flick's team wants to secure their spot in the semifinals at home. The fans have already replied, and Montjuïc promises a big night.
The Culers arrive with high morale after defeating Betis in LaLiga. The team has found consistency and increasingly resembles the solid block Flick dreamed of. The connection between young players and veterans is starting to show results.
Facing them will be a dangerous Dortmund, although with many doubts. Their performance has dropped in recent weeks and doesn't convey security. Additionally, they have lost their best defender at the worst moment.
Schlotterbeck, a Significant Loss for Dortmund
The German center-back has torn his meniscus and won't play again this season. His absence leaves Edin Terzić's defensive system severely weakened. Stopping Lewandowski and company without him will be a huge challenge.
This forces Dortmund to improvise an emergency defense. The options are limited, and Flick knows it. That's why he will look to strike from the first minute.
Pressing in the opponent's half and the mobility of Raphinha and Lamine Yamal will be key. But there is another great piece of news in the Culers' defense that changes the entire outlook. A very desired return has been confirmed.
Ready to Be a Starter
Throughout the week, there were doubts about his physical condition. The center-back had been dealing with discomfort that kept him out of the last match. However, the doctors have given the green light, and Flick has already included him in the line-up.
His presence is vital to provide stability at the back. Iñigo not only defends intelligently but also distributes the ball with precision. That is key against an opponent that presses high.
Additionally, his leadership is unquestionable in important matches. He has experience in high-stakes games and knows how to stay calm. Szczesny, making his Champions League debut with Barça, will feel more protected with him in front.
Araújo Returns to the Bench
Iñigo's return pushes Ronald Araújo out of the line-up. Flick has opted to maintain the pair that has worked so well: Iñigo and Pau Cubarsí. A tactical decision based on balance and clean distribution.
Although Araújo is a top-level center-back, his current form is not the best. The German coach prefers not to take risks. He wants to minimize errors on such a crucial night.
Cubarsí, meanwhile, continues to grow match by match. His maturity at just 17 years old has surprised everyone. And alongside Iñigo, his performance multiplies.
Flick Trusts the Formula That Works
The coach doesn't want to make any experiments. He knows he has a defense that understands each other well and has delivered results. So he will repeat with the same players.
Iñigo's recovery has been celebrated as a victory within the locker room. His leadership is respected by everyone. His ability to organize the defensive line is irreplaceable.
The goal is clear: keep a clean sheet. If Barça doesn't concede, they have many chances to advance. With Iñigo in charge, the challenge becomes more manageable.
The Champions League returns to Barcelona with a high-voltage match. Flick has recovered his most reliable center-back in time, allowing him to face the match with greater guarantees. Szczesny also benefits, knowing he will have a solid defense in front of him.
The fans are already dreaming of the semifinals. All that's left is for the team to respond on the field. With Iñigo Martínez leading from the back, Barça is ready to continue making history.