In the second leg of the Champions League semifinal, experience meets exuberance. Inter Milan, defensively rigid and ruthlessly efficient, faces a Barcelona side reinventing itself around young stars and a revitalized midfield core. The combined XI from these two storied clubs reflects a mix of old heads and breakout performers—players who have not just stepped up but reshaped their teams’ identities.
Wojciech Szczęsny – Goalkeeper, Barcelona
The veteran Polish keeper arrived in January following Ter Stegen’s injury and immediately brought stability. He made 17 saves across the knockout stages and helped Barça weather intense pressure against Napoli and Bayern.
Jules Koundé – Right back, Barcelona
Koundé has been deployed across the backline but shines most as a ball-carrying right back. With a passing accuracy hovering around 90% and top speed among defenders in La Liga, he’s been essential to Barcelona’s build-up play.
Pau Cubarsí – Center back, Barcelona
The 18-year-old has become a revelation in central defense, showing poise well beyond his years. With 2.3 interceptions per game and a near-perfect aerial duel win rate, Cubarsí is already commanding respect across Europe.
Alessandro Bastoni – Center back, Inter Milan
A cornerstone of Inter’s backline, Bastoni blends rugged defense with playmaking vision, tallying 5 assists this season. He’s averaged 6.1 long balls per game in Serie A, often launching Inter’s attacks from deep.
Federico Dimarco – Left back, Inter Milan
Dimarco has been one of Serie A’s most dangerous crossers, racking up 11 assists this campaign. His set-piece deliveries and attacking overlaps give Inter an extra edge on the left flank.
Nicolò Barella – Central midfielder, Inter Milan
Barella’s engine never stops. He’s chipped in with 3 goals and 6 assists in Serie A and is averaging 2.8 tackles per game in Europe. His ability to carry the ball and press effectively is irreplaceable for Simone Inzaghi.
Frenkie de Jong – Central midfielder, Barcelona
De Jong’s composure and spatial awareness have helped Barcelona dictate tempo even against high-pressing sides. He completes more progressive passes than any other midfielder in La Liga.
Pedri – Central midfielder, Barcelona
Pedri remains one of Europe’s best at finding space and threading passes when fit. His delicate chip to Raphinha who then assisted Ferran Torres against Inter in the first leg, reminded us how easily the Spaniard sees the game unfold before others.
Raphinha – Right winger, Barcelona
Raphinha has emerged as Barcelona’s most clutch attacker in Europe this season, with 12 UCL goals. His finishing has become more clinical, especially in transition, and he plays with relentless intent.
Lautaro Martínez – Striker, Inter Milan
The Argentine striker leads Inter with 8 Champions League goals, striking every 95 minutes. His tireless pressing, sharp movement, and link-up play have been vital to Inter’s direct attacking approach.
Lamine Yamal – Left winger, Barcelona
At just 17, Yamal has shattered expectations, becoming history’s youngest UCL semifinal scorer. His fearlessness on the ball and eye for goal have turned him into Barcelona’s breakout star of the season.
