Man United v Barcelona conflict will make each groups higher, says Ten Hag

Manchester United and Barcelona wanted a reboot however are actually in an excellent place to make one another higher, United coach Erik Ten Hag stated forward of the primary leg of their Europa League knockout-round conflict on Thursday.

The groups have met frequently within the Champions League over time and Ten Hag doesn’t see a lot distinction within the degree of play between his facet and the Spanish LaLiga leaders.

“Both clubs have the ambition to be in the Champions League and to have an impact in it, but the reality is, we’re in the Europa League, which shows both clubs needed a reset,” Ten Hag informed reporters on Wednesday.

“I think it’s exciting to face each other tomorrow night because it will help both clubs. We both are in the right direction, is a good taste for both teams, from challenges you get better.”

The Dutch coach praised Xavi Hernandez’s crew, who lead Real Madrid by 11 factors and have conceded solely seven objectives in 21 league video games with a enjoying type made well-known by former Dutch nice Johan Cruyff.

“Barca is very difficult, they are playing their best football in many years, you see their way of playing and the influence of Johan Cruyff,” stated Ten Hag.

“When you see their stats it is impressive, they defend well, but their biggest skill is the possession.”

United can be hampered by the absences of Lisandro Martinez and Marcel Sabitzer because of suspension, in addition to Antony, Anthony Martial and Scott McTominay who’re injured.

Ten Hag stated they had been heading in the right direction to return to motion forward of the League Cup closing in opposition to Newcastle United on Feb. 26 when Manchester United will bid to win their first main trophy since 2017.