Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has warned his side against complacency ahead of their crucial UCL semifinal against Inter Milan on Wednesday night.
Inter’s recent slump
The Italian Serie A champions have suffered three straight defeats in all competitions, losing their league at the top of the standings last weekend with a 1-0 home loss against AS Roma.
Hopes of winning a treble have faded in the past week after the Nerazzurri also suffered elimination from the Copa Italia, with a disappointing 3-0 loss to city rivals AC Milan.
What Flick said:
Hansi Flick, who led Barcelona to the Copa Del Rey title last weekend in a thrilling 3-2 win over Real Madrid in extra time, has however warned that his side will leave no room for complacency despite their opponent’s recent loss of form.
He said: “Their form doesn’t change our approach. The Champions League is a big chance for Inter to win a title. They are two to matches away from the final and we are also. So, this is totally different. I think everyone now gives 100%. It doesn’t matter how their matches in the past were. We focus on now.
I don’t think about that because it’s not my thing. It’s not my job. I’m focused on my team and what I say to my team. I said before it’s important to give 100% against Inter and they will be ready. They have the mentality to win these things and it’s important for us to play on the highest level we can”, the German added.
“When you win a final against Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey, of course it’s about also how the history of the match. It was very special with big emotion at the end of the match. But now we are here focused. We have the opportunity to reach the final of the Champions League and for everyone from everyone is a dream to be there. So, we have to stay focused, and the team is really good.”
What to expect on Wednesday
Both sides finished in the top eight of the new UCL group format, and have had hugely impressive season, with Wednesday’s clash at the Estadi Olympic de Montjuic promising to be a thriller.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
