Manchester United have sent Barcelona crashing out of the Europa League after they turned it around against Xavi’s men once more following a questionable penalty decision.
Bruno Fernandes was adjudged to have used his arms excessively in a duel with Alejandro Balde, a decision that would set the tone for the rest of the first half.
United were left frustrated by the referee and were completely out of the game by the time the two teams made it into the dressing rooms for their half-time debriefs.
After the interval, Erik ten Hag’s men came out looking like the side that has earned them plaudits over the last couple of months and deservedly turned it all around.
Man United Player Ratings
David de Gea – 6
Almost saved the penalty but was rarely called into action after that. Made one good save on Jules Koundé.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka – 7
It seems like Ten Hag is undecided on who to play at right-back. Sunday’s final will tell us more.
Raphael Varane – 10
A performance that will be talked about for days. Such a classy footballer. Undeniably, one of the three best centre-backs in the Premier League and so is his partner.
Lisandro Martinez – 10
It’s a shame that the scale ends at 10. The same can be said for Varane. Completely erased Robert Lewandowski from the game. Colossal.
Luke Shaw – 9
Leadership, quality, consistency.
Casemiro – 10
Back to haunt his old arch-rivals once more. The best.
Fred – 10
That is Fred’s best performance since he joined United almost five years ago. He was everywhere, being a nuisance and scored the important equaliser which gave the Reds the injection they needed.
Bruno Fernandes – 8
We will see past the penalty as it was a soft one. Sets the tone with his urgency and pressing. Heavily involved in the winning goal.
Marcus Rashford – 7
Left frustrated as Barcelona targetted him but still did good.
Jadon Sancho – 5
Struggled to get a footing in the game.
Wout Weghorst – 5
Sacrificed for Antony at half-time.
