Ahead of the Europa League play-off second leg, Xavi, the Barcelona manager, has praised four Manchester United players and the team’s manager, Erik ten Hag.
In the lead-up to the Europa League play-off second leg, the renowned Barcelona manager, Xavi, has voiced his praise for four Manchester United players, along with the team’s esteemed manager, Erik ten Hag. Speaking to The Times, the revered football figure revealed his admiration for the Dutchman’s impressive leadership style.
In addition to commending ten Hag’s tactical prowess and ability to galvanize his team, Xavi lauded the exceptional talent of Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford, both of whom recently scored against Leicester. He also suggested that Fred is playing at an elevated level, demonstrating exceptional form.
He said: “(Ten Hag) is very good, I like him a lot. He has built a team and is getting the best out of all his players. That speaks well of him.
“Tactically he is very good and he handles the dressing room very well. He is getting all the talent out of his players.
“You see [Jadon] Sancho, [Marcus] Rashford, the Portuguese guy [Bruno Fernandes]. And look how Fred is playing…
“Difficult? Well, we’ve known that since [the draw was made]. We are a brave team that likes to attack and always win. [This game] will not be an exception.”
While Bruno Fernandes was also praised for his recent on-field performances, Xavi referred to the midfielder simply as ‘the Portuguese guy’, raising questions about whether he holds the same high regard for Fernandes as he does for the other players.
Xavi’s words offer a fascinating insight into the behind-the-scenes opinions of some of the most respected names in the football world, and hint at the intense competition that will be on display at the upcoming match between the two teams.
It remains to be seen whether Fred will start in the crucial game, or whether Marcel Sabitzer will take his place, with ten Hag’s selection likely to be influenced by the upcoming EFL Cup final.
Nevertheless, it’s certain that both teams will be fighting hard to claim victory and advance in the tournament.