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Old Trafford set for another European classic under the lights as Barcelona face Manchester United

After a pulsating 2-2 draw, Manchester United have the crowd on their side as they host Barcelona in the second leg of their Europa League knockout tie.

Old Trafford are expecting one of their biggest turnouts of the season, as they host Barcelona in their Europa League knockout tie.

With the tie finely poised, manager Erik ten Hag has called on Manchester United fans to attend the crucial fixture in their season; ‘I said: ‘come Thursday, it is a big game. Make sure you are there and we are sure we can beat Barcelona together’’.

Brazilian Antony and captain Harry Maguire are expected to return to the squad, as well as Marcel Sabitzer and Lisandro Martinez from suspension.

Manchester United have also put out a statement to the fans, saying no music will be played in the 15 minutes prior to kick-off, to build up the atmosphere.

ten Hag added; ‘I think we have to make a bond together, the fans and the players,” he added. “We have to keep the process going. It’s great at Old Trafford, and at away games, and you feel it, the vibe between the fans and players.’

United don’t have a great record against Barcelona, winning one in 11 matches, with that a 1-0 win back in 2008, thanks to Paul Scholes’ strike.

However, Marcus Rashford is in the form of his life, scoring at the Nou Camp last week, and grabbing his 24th goal on Sunday, which now makes it his best scoring season ever.

Barcelona manager Xavi expects a tough test from Manchester United, with multiple key players out of the tie. Pedri and Gavi are out due to injury and suspension, respectively, as well as Ousmane Dembele and Sergio Busquets due to injury.

Xavi gave his opponents some big praise in his press conference yesterday; ‘Manchester United are one of the best teams in Europe and they are showing it.

‘It’s the best Manchester United over the last few years and a great bit of work that Erik ten Hag has done.

‘At the Nou Camp they showed a great passion and we have to match that. It’s a tough stadium to go to and we have to show the personality, play the way we can and be very intense during the game.’

Kick off is at 20:00, live on BT Sport 1.

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