Xavi names Man United star as one of his three toughest opponents since becoming Barcelona manager

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Barcelona manager Xavi has revealed that one Manchester United star has “cost” the Spanish side “a lot” since he became head coach of the La Liga club.

Xavi made his triumphant return to the Camp Nou in 2021 by replacing Ronald Koeman as the club’s manager after Barcelona trigged his release clause at Al Sadd.

The Barcelona legend has enjoyed early success in the managerial dugout for the Catalan side, including leading the club to the La Liga title last season.

However, Xavi’s men were dumped out of the 2022-23 Europa League competition in the knockout play-off round against Erik ten Hag’s United side.

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Xavi names Rashford as one of his toughest opponents

Goals from Antony and Fred sealed a first-leg 2-1 win over Barcelona at Old Trafford back in February before Ten Hag’s men travelled to the Camp Nou in the return leg.

United punched their ticket to the Europa League round of 16 with a 2-2 draw away from home, with Marcus Rashford scoring against Barcelona in the second half.

Xavi has now revealed that Rashford is one of the most difficult players for him to stop as Barcelona manager alongside Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior.

When asked about his toughest opponents as Barcelona boss, he told Mundo Deportivo: “Rashford cost us a lot. Also Vinicius, Benzema.”

Speaking on his toughest defeat as Barcelona boss, Xavi said: “The 0-3 at home against Bayern last season, which marked the final goodbye to the Champions League.”

Rashford was in dynamite form last season

Rashford underwent a remarkable transformation last season and carried on his scintillating run of form for United after England’s 2022 World Cup campaign.

The 25-year-old United forward ended last season by scoring an impressive 30 times and registering 11 assists in 56 appearances across all competitions for his club.

Rashford’s superb campaign saw him rewarded with a new long-term deal at United, with the England star committing his future to the Premier League club until 2028.

However, the United star has faced mounting pressure over his start to the current season, with Rashford scoring only once in seven Premier League stars.