Xavi is happy with the draw and looks ahead to the rematch at Old Trafford

Despite the 2-2 draw at home, Xavi is satisfied with his team’s starting position for the Europa League playoff rematch. The Spanish coach especially appreciates the fact that his players were able to cope with a very capable team.

The anticipated Europa League play-off match between Barcelona and Manchester United ended in a 2-2 draw. In the rematch at Old Trafford, both teams will have the same starting position.

Even though Barcelona failed to take full advantage of the home environment, coach Xavi is satisfied with the match. Even though the home side had to salvage a final draw.

“I’m quite satisfied. We didn’t want to draw, but we played against a great team that is now one of the best in Europe. We matched them, even dominated them in some areas,” Xavi told Barca Universal after the game.

The Spanish strategist is now looking forward to the rematch in Manchester, which will decide who advances. “It will be a match of great intensity at Old Trafford. We can win. Despite the draw, I am proud of my team,” the Catalan coach added.

Xavi will have to make several unplanned changes before the return leg. Gavi will not be able to play in the next game due to a card penalty, and Pedri was injured in the first leg and is expected to miss three to four weeks.

Xavi will have to rebuild his team. Frenkie de Jong and Kessie will certainly remain in the starting line-up in the centre of midfield. With Busquets injured, they could probably be supplemented by Sergi Roberto as was the case in the first game.

Instead of Gavi, Ansu Fati is under consideration, but he is currently not getting as many opportunities and lacks the necessary game experience. However, in the attacking phase he could be a full-fledged replacement for the out-of-sorts Gavi.

The second match is scheduled for 23 February at 21:00 in Manchester. Given the draw, it is the result of this match that will send on one of the two favourites to win the Europa League title.

Sources: Tribuna, Barca Universal, Livesport