Barcelona boss Xavi Hernández was satisfied with his team’s performance at Camp Nou on Thursday.
“I have the feeling that we competed well. We dominated in many phases. There were chances for both sides and in the end, it was there for us,” he said in quotes transcribed by Mundo Deportivo.
“The team’s attitude was fantastic. We are going to Manchester to try to go through. I said I thought it would be resolved in Manchester.”
On United
United took the lead in the second half of the match when French defender Jules Koundé put the ball in his own net.
The Koundé own goal came after Marcos Alonso put the home side in front with a header before Marcus Rashford equalised with his 14th goal in 16 games.
Xavi added: “It’s true that they press, they make it difficult for you, but we also competed well, against a great team, one of the best teams in Europe right now. The high pressing was good.
“We matched them in intensity and were able to push them. I’m proud of the team, because we gave everything.
“I expect a match with a lot of intensity, even more so at Old Trafford. We can go there and win.”
On Pedri’s injury
Pedri was forced off with a thigh injury in the first half at Camp Nou and when asked about the injury, Xavi said: “We have alternatives: Frenkie, Franck, Pablo, Sergi…”.
The Blaugrana boss went on to explain that Sergi Roberto understands the role of the midfielder very well, adding: “Sergio Busquets will probably be back for Sunday”.
Barcelona play their Europa League second leg against Erik ten Hag’s in-form side next Thursday at Old Trafford.
Their next league match is at home to Cádiz in La Liga on 19 February. A win over the Andalusian side would ensure the 8-point gap at the top of the league remains intact.
Kieran Quaile | GSFN
