Jordi Cruyff has reacted to two of his former clubs Barcelona and Manchester United being drawn against one and other in the Europa League play-off draw.
Blaugrana and the Red Devils were the first two balls to be picked out of this afternoon’s draw in Nyon, Switzerland.
Cruyff, who is currently the sporting director at the Nou Camp, played for both of the European giants during his professional career.
The 48-year-old, who was capped nine times by the Netherlands, has already spoken about he believes Manchester United appointing Erik ten Hag as the club’s fifth permanent manager since Sir Alex Ferguson retired was a good decision.
Cruyff made 58 appearances under Sir Alex at Old Trafford, and he won three Premier Leagues, two FA Cups and two Charity Shields.
He made 53 appearances for Barca and was part of the Catalonia side that won the 1994/95 Spanish Super Cup.
Jordi Cruyff reacts to Barcelona being drawn against Manchester United
Cruyff, who was present in Nyon to watch the draw conducted by UEFA, is looking forward to the “spectacular tie”.
Speaking via Mundo Deportivo, the Dutchman said: “It is a spectacular tie for the neutral fan.
“It could be a crossover of the Champions League, two big clubs, with the potential to win anything.
“It is a difficult tie, but we must face it with optimism to pass and go far in this competition.”
On the Red Devils, Cruyff said: “It is a team with a lot of history. Now they have a new coach, to make a new path. It has a large audience and a stadium that tightens. It’s a big club and we will both do our best [to progress].”
Barcelona’s vice president Rafa Yuste also reacted to the draw, and he said: “You could say it’s a final. They’re the two great teams and it’s going to raise a huge expectation.”
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