A breathtaking 2-2 draw at Camp Nou means that all is still there to play for in the second leg next week when Barcelona make the trip to Old Trafford.
Erik ten Hag’s men will feel unlucky not to be returning home with a victory but they are now favourites to make it into the next round of this year’s Europa League.
Going into the first leg in Barcelona, both sides were without some key players. United were missing Lisandro Martinez, Christian Eriksen, Marcel Sabitzer, Anthony Martial and Antony.
Sergio Busquets and Ousmane Dembele missed the game for Barcelona but now, that tally could be doubled as misery could be compounded for the Catalan giants.
Young midfielder Gavi was booked in the second half and that means he is now suspended for the return leg in Manchester. Pedri, his partner in crime, was withdrawn shortly before half-time with a muscular injury. Barcelona have confirmed in an official statement that the Spain international sustained a hamstring injury.
SN’s verdict…
In addition to the news that Barcelona could be missing another two of their most important players, United will be licking their lips at the thought of welcoming the La Liga giants to Manchester.
It can’t be forgotten that United will be welcoming at least two of their absentees back for the return leg, with Martinez and Sabitzer both serving their one-match suspensions in the 2-2 draw.
The recent change to the away goal rule means that United must win to qualify without taking the game to penalties.
