Manchester United host Barcelona in the second leg of the UEFA Europa League tonight.
According to Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, the team must deliver their best performance of the season to defeat Barcelona and progress to the last 16 of the Europa League.
The two sides, who drew 2-2 at the Nou Camp on 16 February, will meet in the second leg of their playoff at Old Trafford on Thursday. Ten Hag emphasized that playing against such top-tier teams requires the team to play at their absolute best to stand a chance of winning.
Manchester United has not won a trophy since 2017, and they have a Carabao Cup final against Newcastle United on Sunday.
The team is also third in the Premier League and will face West Ham United in the FA Cup fifth round on 1 March. Ten Hag emphasized that their focus remains on the next game, and they need to keep improving every day to be the best version of themselves.
Regarding their upcoming match against Barcelona, winger Antony and defender Harry Maguire are expected to be available, but forward Anthony Martial remains out with an injury.
On the other hand, Barcelona will be without midfielders Pedri and Gavi due to injury and suspension, respectively, while Ousmane Dembele is still recovering from a hamstring issue.
Barcelona manager Xavi acknowledged that Manchester United is one of the best teams in Europe and that his team will have to play with intensity to match them.
Xavi also praised the impact of United defender Raphael Varane and midfielder Casemiro, stating that they are vital players for the team’s success.