Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez is doubtful for the UEFA Champions League’s second leg against FC Barcelona, which is scheduled for Tuesday in Milan. In the first leg, played in Barcelona, the teams ended in a 3-3 draw. The Italian side hopes their captain will be able to recover from a muscular injury sustained that led coach Simone Inzaghi to substitute him at halftime. Reports indicate that Lautaro aspires to participate in the return match in Milan but, should his recovery not progress as wished, Inzaghi must consider his lineup options.

An official statement from Inter revealed: “Lautaro Martinez underwent various tests today at the Humanitas Institute in Rozzano, confirming an elongation of the flexor muscles in his left thigh. The player’s condition will be monitored daily.”

“Le condizioni di Lautaro Martinez” — Inter ⭐⭐ (@Inter) May 2, 2025

Who Can Fill Lautaro’s Shoes?

The absence of Lautaro, who has netted 21 goals in 47 outings this season, poses a significant challenge. It is likely that Mehdi Taremi, who replaced Lautaro during the first leg, will start if he cannot play. Alternatively, coach Inzaghi could deploy Marcus Thuram alongside Taremi in the attack. Other strategies might involve positioning midfielder Davide Frattesi in a defensive role, but Inzaghi has consistently stuck to his 3-5-2 formation throughout his tenure, making significant tactical changes in crucial matches highly unlikely.