Barcelona to face best Man United team in many years - Xavi

After fighting back to earn a 2-2 draw with the Premier League side in a pulsating game at the Camp Nou, Xavi believes his team will need to be at their best on Thursday (February 23) to advance to the last 16.
 

“We are here to compete. We have desire and passion. I think we come here in good shape despite the players we’re missing, but that is no excuse. And from here, we’re going to try and put out best foot forward. It is clear that Manchester are having the best moment they’ve had over the past few years and it’s going to be tough. But I think we’ve got the team to get through to the next round.”  Xavi told a news conference.

“Yes, I always tell them as their coach that they should enjoy the pressure. We’re on a great stage tomorrow. Any player would give whatever they could to play this kind of match with the environment here at Old Trafford. A European knockout match, even if it is Europa League (and not Champions League), is motivation for any player. (I tell them) to stay calm. Yeah, controlling your emotions is also important for us.”

United are unbeaten in their last eight games in all competitions and are third in the Premier League standings on 49 points, five behind leaders Arsenal.

They were the better side for large parts of the first leg and controlled the tempo but were denied by goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen who made several outstanding saves to keep the Spanish team in the tie.

Xavi will be without the injured Pedri and Ousmane Dembele while Gavi is suspended.