Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has spoken out about Manchester United’s upcoming Europa League clash with Barcelona.
United face Barcelona in the Europa League play-off rounds, in fixtures set to be played in February 2023.
It was a tough draw for United, a result of only finishing second in the group behind Real Sociedad on goal difference.
But Barcelona are not exactly happy with the draw either, with manager Xavi bemoaning their misfortune.
Ten Hag determined Manchester United beat Barcelona
Erik ten Hag knows Manchester United have other priorities between now and then, including matches in the Carabao Cup Cup, FA Cup, and Premier League.
However, exciting ties like this between Manchester United and Barcelona are not easily put to one side.
Ten Hag told the club’s official website he is absolutely determined that United come out on top.
He said: “It’s in the back of my head. First, we have a lot of other games to cover and I like the style of Barcelona. It’s going to be a great competition between us.
“We’re looking forward but as I said, there are a lot of games coming up and we are focused on them. In the moment itself, we’ll give it our best and make a clear plan.
“We have to beat them.”
One problem for United to deal with is Lisandro Martinez being suspended for the first leg.
However, Raphael Varane’s strong performance for France to negate Poland’s Robert Lewandowski showed he can hold the fort against the superstar striker – providing he is fit.
The two matches are set to be terrific occasions, and the winner will have an easier path to the final.
United have two matches against Spanish opposition this week which could be useful, friendlies with La Liga sides Cadiz and then Real Betis.
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