Barcelona host Manchester United on Thursday in a truly heavyweight Europa League clash.
While the fact this most glamorous of fixtures is taking place within the confines of Europe’s secondary club competition explains some of the respective struggles of both teams, it does not tell the whole story.
Indeed, both Barca and United look resurgent. Xavi’s side sit atop LaLiga with the safety of an eleven-point gap over Real Madrid, while Erik ten Hag has United playing some of their best football in years.
A Champions League final just over a decade ago, even a Europa League setting does little to dampen the excitement of a meeting between two of the continent’s in-form sides.
Here’s everything you need to know about the game.
Date, kick-off time and venue
Barcelona vs Manchester United is scheduled for an 5.45pm GMT kick-off on Thursday 16 February 2023.
Camp Nou in Barcelona will host.
Where to watch Barcelona vs Manchester United
TV channel: The game will be broadcast on BT Sport 2.
Live stream: The BT Sport App will allow subscribers to access a live steam across mobile devices, laptops, games consoles, tablets and more.
LIVE coverage: Follow all of the action with Standard Sport’s dedicated match blog.
Injured: Busquets will miss the United game with ankle ligament damage
Still, Xavi has a number of options to replace his two stricken World Cup winners. Frenkie de Jong – a long-standing target of United’s – is expected to start alongside Pedri and Gavi in midfield, while Ansu Fati or Ferran Torres could partner Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski in attack.
Ten Hag has previously hinted none of Scott McTominay, Antony or Anthony Martial will make the game through respective injuries. Casemiro, however, will be available after missing the last two Premier League games through suspension.
Barcelona vs Manchester United prediction
Barcelona are yet to lose at home this season and boast the best defense in Spain. While United have come on leaps and bounds of late, it’s a huge ask to go to Camp Nou and win. It’s all about staying in the tie.
