Inter Milan is set to host FC Barcelona in a highly anticipated second leg of the UEFA Champions League at the San Siro on Tuesday. This follows a thrilling 3-3 draw in the first leg in Barcelona, a match where Inter showed they possess the capability to reach the final, despite recent inconsistent form in Serie A.
The following day, on Wednesday, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) will welcome Arsenal to Paris for the second leg of their tie. PSG holds a narrow advantage after securing a 1-0 victory in London last week.
For Simone Inzaghi`s Inter squad, currently trailing Napoli in Serie A with only three matches remaining, the Champions League represents their most realistic path to silverware this season. However, overcoming a powerhouse like FC Barcelona, managed by Hansi Flick, will be a significant challenge. Barcelona is enjoying a stellar season, competing for a treble after winning the Copa del Rey and holding a league lead over Real Madrid. The upcoming week, including this crucial Champions League tie, could define Barcelona`s campaign.
Just as these second legs are critical for Inter and Barcelona, they also represent a potential historic achievement for PSG and Arsenal. Success hinges significantly on individual brilliance. Here, we highlight one key player for each of the four teams whose performance could be the deciding factor in securing a place in the final.
Marcus Thuram, Inter Milan
The French forward proved his importance in the first leg against Barcelona by scoring the opening goal just 30 seconds into the match, setting a record for the quickest goal in Champions League semifinal history. Thuram recovered from a muscular injury just in time for the first leg and immediately demonstrated his value to Inter`s attacking structure and his partnership with Lautaro Martinez. With Lautaro Martinez`s participation uncertain due to an injury sustained in the first leg, Thuram`s role becomes even more central. Inter needs their top version of Thuram to aim for their second Champions League final appearance in three seasons, following their 2023 defeat to Manchester City. Thuram has contributed significantly this season with 14 goals and seven assists.
Lamine Yamal, FC Barcelona
While perhaps an obvious choice, Barcelona`s success in the second leg is heavily reliant on the performance of their star winger, Lamine Yamal. His display in the first leg was exceptional, marked by a stunning goal on what was his 100th appearance for the club, pulling his team back into the tie after falling behind. With Polish striker Robert Lewandowski`s starting status in doubt, much of the attacking burden falls on Yamal and Raphinha. Yamal`s considerable impact this season, marked by significant goal contributions and assists, makes him indispensable to Barcelona`s aspirations.
Gianluigi Donnarumma, Paris Saint-Germain
The Italian goalkeeper has been a standout performer for PSG throughout their Champions League campaign. The former AC Milan player made vital saves in the earlier rounds against tough opponents and delivered another commanding performance in the first leg against Arsenal, reaffirming his status among Europe`s elite goalkeepers. PSG continues its pursuit of a historic first Champions League trophy, having been a finalist in 2020. Donnarumma`s exceptional form in goal will be crucial to their chances.
Martin Ødegaard, Arsenal
Mikel Arteta`s Arsenal suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat in the first leg at home against PSG, but they have the opportunity to turn the tie around in Paris. A significant part of their comeback hopes rests on the shoulders of their captain and key player, Martin Ødegaard. The Norwegian attacking midfielder is tasked with providing the creativity needed to unlock PSG`s defense. Having already scored three goals in the Champions League this season, Ødegaard is expected to lead Arsenal`s attacking effort alongside dynamic players like Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice.
Dominic Ashworth