A firm decision has been made! Hansi Flick is completely dissatisfied with the display of Barcelona’s star during the clash with Inter Milan and has chosen to leave the player out entirely for the second leg: “He won’t be involved in the return match at all!”

The first leg of the Champions League semi-final between Barcelona and Inter Milan ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw, marked by an intense and emotional atmosphere. The result left both teams with everything to play for in the second leg at the San Siro. Spanish newspaper El Nacional has reported significant fallout from the match within the Barcelona camp, particularly concerning coach Hansi Flick’s stance on certain players.

One of the key takeaways from the encounter was Flick’s disappointment with young left-back Gerard Martin, who was given a rare start due to the injury absence of Alejandro Balde. The German manager had hoped to see Martin seize the opportunity and prove himself on one of the biggest stages in European football. However, the plan did not go as intended.

Throughout the first half at the Montjuïc Stadium, Martin appeared overwhelmed by the high stakes and pressure of the match. Inter Milan focused many of their attacks down Barcelona’s left side, with Martin frequently struggling to contain the likes of Denzel Dumfries and Nicolo Barella. His defensive frailty, indecision on the ball, and lack of attacking support left Barcelona vulnerable on that flank.

Flick had opted for an adventurous starting lineup, including Szczesny in goal and a defensive line of Koundé, Iñigo Martinez, Coparsi, and Martin.

Unfortunately for the young fullback, Inter’s relentless attacking soon exposed his inexperience. By halftime, Flick decided to take action, substituting Martin for Ronald Araujo and reorganizing the defense in an attempt to stabilize the backline.

This mid-game decision was a clear message from Flick. According to sources close to the club, the coach expressed his dissatisfaction with Martin’s showing and has resolved not to feature him in the crucial return leg unless an emergency arises. While Martin continues to receive encouragement from his teammates, Flick reportedly believes the young defender is not yet prepared for high-pressure encounters at this level.

Although Flick does not solely blame Martin for the match’s outcome, it’s evident that he views the decision to start him as a miscalculated risk. The technical staff acknowledges that a Champions League semi-final against a strong, experienced side like Inter Milan is not the ideal setting for a player still adjusting to elite European competition.