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Manchester United’s chances of causing Barcelona an upset in the Champions League would be 4 on a scale of 1 to 10. But this edition of the competition has already thrown many unexpected results. Who's to say there won't be another one?
Can Manchester United repeat their heroics from that night at the Parc des Princes? Facing the mighty Barcelona is a whole different ball game. But can they do it again? Let's have a look at the factors that could benefit both the teams.
Being 2–0 down after the first leg at Old Trafford, Manchester United were facing a similar (though not of the same extent) challenge. Everyone wrote them off even before a ball was kicked, everyone except Ole.
“When we go down there to Paris, we'll give it a go. Of course, it's a difficult, difficult mountain to climb but it's not impossible,” Ole said after the defeat at Old Trafford.
And to the surprise of many, they did overturn the first leg deficit and progressed to the Quarter Finals of the competition at the expense of favorites PSG.
This edition of the Champions League is more open than any of the previous ones. At this point in the competition, all the remaining teams have a realistic shot at glory (including Porto and Manchester United).
Ole has been in his usual upbeat mood too, “We’ve shown against PSG that on any given day we can beat a top team. It's a tough one — it's a mountain to climb — but we've climbed a few mountains before.”
That said, here are the things which might work for Barcelona:
#1 Messi
Who else than the God himself (sorry Pope Francis). Valverde’s Barcelona is not of the similar ilk as of Guardiola’s or even Enrique’s Barcelona. Yet, they have their biggest weapon in the form of Messi.
Throughout his career, Messi has improved his game and has performed with almost superhuman consistency. He might not be the fastest player anymore but his overall game is on a different level now. This season too, he has been in imperious form.
After seeing the great rivals Real Madrid march to three consecutive UCL victories, Messi is determined to bring back the trophy to Camp Nou. Barca’s captain with his excellent performances is almost single-handedly taking care of the goals. With 43 goals and 21 assists in 40 games, there is no other player on the planet who can boast of such a record. Barca’s chances of progression rely heavily on their talisman.
#2 Experience
Another factor that might benefit Valverde’s Barcelona is their experienced squad. Players like Suarez, Busquets, Vidal, Messi, Pique, and Alba are Champions League veterans. They have been in this situation numerous times. This will clearly give an edge to Barcelona against a pretty inexperienced and young side like Manchester United.
#3 Fewer distractions
Barcelona sit 11 points clear at the top of the La Liga table. After beating Atletico Madrid, their path towards the La Liga title is clearer than ever. Barring some erratic wobble that might come up at the closing stages of the season, they have more or less wrapped up the title. Their only other major game is against Valencia in the final of the Copa del Ray on 25th May. Clearly, their focus would be on winning the Champions League. Compare that to Manchester United, who are involved in a hotly contested top 4 battle.
#4 Second leg at home
Barcelona were to host Manchester United at home first, before going to Old Trafford for the second leg. However, due to Machester City’s home leg against Tottenham falling around the same time, the fixtures were reversed. Barcelona will now go to Old Trafford for the first leg before hosting Manchester United at Camp Nou for the second leg.
This reversal of fixtures has given Barcelona a slight advantage. Playing the second leg in front of the home crowd will give them confidence. They'll be positive of picking a result against United in front of their home crowd.
Now let’s look at the things Manchester United can benefit from:
#1 A potent attack
One department where many fellow premier league clubs would envy United is the attack. Rashford, Pogba, Lukaku, Martial, Lingard and even to some extent Sanchez, make United one of the meanest attacks in the league. Ole’s arrival has given this attacking unit a further impetus. These players often display a brilliant link-up play, one-touch passing, slick counter-attacks, and some beautiful goals.
Rashford, Lukaku, Martial, and Pogba are currently at double figures in terms of goals. According to Opta, this is the first time since 1995–96 that Manchester United have four players at double figures in goals. Messi and Co. would know better than to underestimate this attacking unit.
#2 Counter-attacking football
Many questions were asked of Ole’s tactical capabilities at the time of his arrival as a caretaker manager. But in a very short time, Ole has managed to silence many of his critics. He has proven in the past few months that he isn’t just a positive influence but also a tactically capable manager.
Ole utilizes pressing to a higher degree than any of his predecessors. United play much compactly now. The transition from defense to attack has improved. Ole has genuinely transformed United into one of the most attractive counter-attacking sides in the league. Their quick counter attacks and efficiency in front of goal was on display against PSG in the second leg. On their day, this team can hurt anyone. And that includes Barcelona.
#3 Ole’s tactical flexibility
Tactically, Ole’s much more flexible than Jose or Van Gaal. After the sacking of Jose in December, Ole’s first game in charge at the club showed the attacking brilliance that this team is capable of. After a few entertaining wins against lower table sides, Ole displayed his tactical flexibility in the win against Tottenham where he adjusted his team’s structure and even caught Pochhettino off guard.
During their FA Cup win over Arsenal, United displayed defensive solidarity. United then knocked Chelsea out of the FA Cup and against all odds, won the return leg of the Champions League at Parc des Princes.
Throughout his spell, Ole has proved to be a proactive coach who is tactically astute and is flexible in his approach in order to win a game. This can clearly prove beneficial against Barcelona.
#4 No expectations
At this point in the competition, the onus is on Barcelona to progress and ultimately lift the trophy. They are heavy favorites and are expected to ease past United.
Manchester United, on the other hand, have already outperformed themselves by eliminating PSG. They have already had their biggest game of the season and not many expect them to win against this mighty Barcelona. There will be no shame in going out against a team of such caliber.
This underdog status might give United a psychological edge. They have performed well against the big sides. This time too, they can go and cause Barcelona some problems.
With all that said, it sure is going to be an entertaining affair.
