Barcelona put on an absolute masterclass of a performance in the El Clasico on Saturday night, beating bitter rivals Real Madrid 4-0, at the Bernabeu no less.
A Robert Lewandowski double, combined with a Lamine Yamal and Raphinha strike ensured Hansi Flicks’ Barcelona side embarrassed Madrid in their own backyard.
The win for the Catalans comes straight after a Champions League masterclass in the week, defeating Harry Kane’s Bayern Munich side in a 4-1 pummeling.
Barca are undeniably the most in-form and feared team in Europe at the moment – which is a stark contrast to Manchester United.
This is particularly depleting for Red Devils supporters, and Erik ten Hag, given United’s last run-out with Barcelona.
Manchester United beat Barcelona in the Europa League in 2023
Flashback to the 22/23 season, Ten Hag’s first in charge at Manchester United, the Red Devils were given a tough Europa League draw in the round of 16 after crashing out of the Champions League – they faced Xavi’s Barcelona.
In the first leg at Camp Nou, it was a 2-2 draw, with United rallying from behind twice, thanks to Marcus Rashford and a Joules Kounde own goal.
At Old Trafford in the second leg, United triumphed 2-1. Following an early Lewandowski penalty, Fred equalised early in the second half, with substitute Antony sealing the win with a brilliant finish.
Ten Hag’s tactics and United’s pressing intensity neutralised Barcelona expertly – it was a masterclass from the Red Devils.
Not three days later, Ten Hag then guided Manchester United to a Carabao Cup win against Newcastle. All was perfect at Old Trafford, and United fans really thought they’d found their saviour in the managerial role.
No more than two years later – this couldn’t look more backwards.
Erik ten Hag has regressed for Manchester United since then, Barcelona have thrived
Since the Barcelona result, the Spanish side made some drastic changes. They sacked head coach Xavi after three years in the role, with former Bayern Munich and Germany boss Hansi Flick coming in to replace him.
A mega clearout was also initiated. They got rid of names like Marcos Alonso, Memphis Depay, and Serginio Dest to name a few, whilst bringing in solid additions like Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor who fit the DNA of the club.
United on the other hand’s trajectory has absolutely plummeted under Ten Hag. Aside from United’s FA Cup win, it’s been a miserable year to be a United fan – and right now feels like the absolute pit of it.
That week in February 2023 was Ten Hag’s peak undoubtedly at Old Trafford so far – and it’s been downhill ever since. This ultimately begs the question – when is enough, enough?
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