Xavi wary of Marcus Rashford threat as Barcelona prepare for Manchester United - 'One of the most dangerous in Europe'
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Updated 15/02/2023 at 22:30 GMT
Marcus Rashford was described as "one of the most dangerous players in Europe" by Barcelona manager Xavi ahead of Manchester United's trip to face the Spanish giants in the Europa League on Thursday. The two heavyweights clash in the second-tier competition's play-off round and Xavi, a four-time Champions League winner as a player, admitted it hurts to not be in the Champions League.
Xavi expects 'really tough' game against Man Utd and Rashford
Barcelona will face one of Europe’s most dangerous forwards when they come up against Manchester United's Marcus Rashford, says Barca boss Xavi.
Rashford has hit a hot streak under Erik ten Hag this season, especially since returning from the World Cup.
The United star has scored eight goals in nine Premier League games since the break and another five across the FA Cup and League Cup.
That form hasn’t gone unnoticed by the Blaugrana manager ahead of a heavyweight Europa League play-off first leg clash at Camp Nou on Thursday.
“He is one of the most dangerous players in Europe,” Xavi said.
“He is very fast, a good dribbler one versus one, and dangerous in the transition.
“It's not like we are expecting only one player. We have assessed what they do and how quick they are on the transition, with [Alejandro] Garnacho, [Jadon] Sancho and [Wout] Weghorst.
“The counter strike is very quick. They have strong legs, so we need players who can correct the fast breaks.
“We need to take care of all of them but yes, Rashford is one of the most dangerous in Europe.”
These two clubs are historically accustomed to competing for loftier objectives than the Europa League, but this season has provided a reality check.
United’s sixth-place Premier League finish last term earned them a place in the second-tier tournament, while Barca finished third in their Champions League group in November to drop down a level.
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Xavi Hernández (FC Barcelona)
Image credit: Getty Images
“It still makes me angry to listen to the Champions League anthem from home,” Xavi admitted.
“But we have to face reality. We are excited about this competition, which has been very beautiful for the teams that have remained.”
He added: “It’s always important, and more so in Europe, since we’re coming off a few seasons without success. It’s a good test, without a doubt, to see that we can compete in Europe.”
Xavi was also asked about Barca midfielder Frenkie de Jong, who spent most of last summer being linked with a move to Old Trafford that never transpired.
“I think he was really glad. He wanted to stay with us, there was not a doubt,” Xavi said.
“He is our player and I'm really happy with his leadership and performance. I think Frenkie is enjoying being on the pitch and that is the most important thing.”
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You can watch Barcelona v Manchester United in the first leg of the Europa League play-off live on BT Sport.
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