In a highly-anticipated Europa League matchup, Manchester United is set to take on Barcelona in the second leg of the round of 32. The two football giants will face off at Old Trafford, providing the perfect backdrop for an exciting contest.
Manchester United, led by their experienced manager Erik Ten Hag, is currently enjoying a successful season in the Premier League. With key players such as Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, and Lisandro Martinez in their ranks, the team is a force to be reckoned with. They will be looking to maintain their impressive form and advance to the next round of the Europa League.
Likewise, Barcelona who are also having a superb season would fancy their chances in the second leg. However, key players like Pedri, Gavi, and Dembele are unavailable for the second leg of the tie. This leaves the Culers with a daunting task at Old Trafford.
The first leg ensued a thrilling contest
The first leg between both sides ensued a thrilling contest. The game ended 2-2 with goals from Raphinha and Marcos Alonso for Barcelona while Marcus Rashford maintained his impressive scoring record as he scored for United. The catalog of goals also included an own goal from Barcelona center-half Jules Kounde. It was an end-to-end contest with both sides having ample opportunities to put the game to bed.
Team News and Predicted XI for Manchester United
With those selection issues in mind, Football Express predicts that Ten Hag will make several changes from the side that claimed victory over Leicester City this Sunday, with notable alterations set to take place at the back.
David De Gea will start in goal undoubtedly as he has always been the manager’s first choice. In defence we will likely see the defensive duo of Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane. Varane was benched for Lindelof on Sunday but the manager will likely pick Varane for the clash against Barcelona.
The fullback pairing is likely to remain with Shaw starting on the left and Dalot on the right. Both of them have played a massive part in Erik ten Hag’s successes till now and are the manager’s first-choice full-back pairing.
In midfield, we might see Marcel Sabitzer pairing up with Casemiro and Bruno playing as the playmaker. Moreover, Marcus Rashford, Wout Weghorst, and Jadon Sancho will likely start in attack.
There are question marks over the availability of Antony and Anthony Martial because of injuries. Additionally, Harry Maguire is the latest victim of the club’s injury list.
Brace yourselves for a thrilling game
The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams possessing attacking firepower and defensive solidity. Manchester United will be hoping to capitalize on their home advantage and secure a win and advance to the next round, while Barcelona will be looking to cause an upset and return with a positive result.
Overall, this is a must-watch fixture for football fans around the world. The stage is set for a fascinating clash between two of Europe’s most prestigious clubs, and the world will be watching to see who will emerge victorious.
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