According to manager Erik ten Hag, Manchester United must put on their “best performance this season” to defeat Barcelona and go to the Europa League round of 16.
The teams will face battle in the second leg of their play-off on Thursday at Old Trafford after a dramatic 2-2 draw between them on February 16 at the Nou Camp.
“You have to play your best when you play such powerful clubs as Barcelona, else you have no chance,” remarked Ten Hag. The Carabao Cup final between United and Newcastle United will take place on Sunday at Wembley. United hasn’t won a trophy since 2017.
They play West Ham United on March 1 in the fifth round of the FA Cup. They are currently third in the Premier League, five points behind league leaders Arsenal. Ten Hag, who took over last summer, stated, “We have the opportunity.”
“But, the next game is usually the first thing to think about, and we can’t win the (Europa League) title this week. “We must have the attitude that we are constantly striving to be a better version of ourselves.”
This week’s supper with 13-time league champion and famous Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was “huge,” according to Ten Hag. “I always look forward to speaking with persons who are very knowledgeable and experienced. He wants to help and support, as well as share it, Ten Hag stated.
“You have a sense that his club is Manchester United. He appears to be sincerely committed to our success. “I’m looking forward to spending the next night with him. It was a terrific night.”
The injured Harry Maguire and Anthony Martial are likely to play against La Liga champions Barcelona, although Anthony Martial is still out.
Both Marcel Sabitzer and Lisandro Martinez, defenders, have served their suspensions. Due to injury and suspension, respectively, Barcelona is missing midfielders Pedri and Gavi, and French striker Ousmane Dembele is still out with a hamstring injury.
But, veteran midfielder Sergio Busquets, who missed the first leg due to an ankle injury, has been added to the team.
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