Barcelona coach Xavi praises three Manchester United players ahead of Europa League fixture

Barcelona manager Xavi thinks Marcus Rashford, Raphael Varane and Casemiro are 'making the difference' for Manchester United.

Rashford has scored 24 goals in all competitions this season, including one against Barcelona at Camp Nou in the Europa League last Thursday, while Varane and Casemiro have been two of the first names on Erik ten Hag's team sheet.

United drew 2-2 with Barcelona in the first leg of the Europa League playoff and Xavi, who was speaking at his pre-match press conference at Old Trafford on Wednesday evening, was complimentary about the Reds.

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The Spaniard said he thought United played with 'personality and passion' in the first leg and he praised Ten Hag.

"It's a really tough game tomorrow. They are one of the best teams in Europe, they're showing it in the way they compete and play," Xavi said. "It's the best Manchester United in a few years and that's the work Ten Hag has done.

"They showed personality and passion at Camp Nou. It's a tough stadium to go to and it will be difficult for us. It could go to extra time or penalties, our idea won't change much. We want to be attacking and if we can play in their half, much better.

"I want them to feel uncomfortable and we have to play with intensity and passion. They showed at Camp Nou they're a great side."

Xavi was also asked about Raphael Varane, Casemiro and Marcus Rashfordand he lavished the praise on those three players.

"Rashford is an exceptional footballer, in an extraordinary vein of form," he added. "He can make the difference for Manchester United. You need to be aware he's there, but the team are more important than an individual player.

"I would say both [Varane and