Barcelona could be without three key midfielders for Manchester United second leg

Barcelona could be without three key midfielders when they face Manchester United in the second leg of their Europa League play-off tie next week. The two sides meet again next Thursday, with the tie perfectly balanced following their 2-2 draw at the Camp Nou.

The first leg was played at a frantic pace and burst into life early in the second half when Marcos Alonso headed the La Liga leaders ahead from a corner.

United responded instantly through Marcus Rashford's brilliant solo effort and took the lead minutes later when Rashford's driven cross was turned in by Jules Kounde for an own goal.

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Both sides had further chances to score, but Barcelona managed to have the final say when Raphinha's low cross evaded everyone and sneaked in at the far-post. It leaves the tie perfectly poised ahead of the Old Trafford return next week, but the odds could be tipped slightly in United's favour given the early team news for the match.

That's because Barcelona could be without three key midfielders for the match after Pedri suffered a hamstring injury in the first leg. The 20-year-old was forced off in the 41st minute and replaced by Sergi Roberto, and things soon went from bad to worse when Gavi picked up a yellow card for a foul on Fred that will see him suspended next week.

Barcelona captain Sergio Busquets missed the first leg through injury, and he now faces a race to be fit for the Old Trafford encounter, given his side's midfield shortage.

It could be a completely different tale for United though, who are expected to be boosted by the return of a number of players for next week's match.

Lisandro Martinez and Marcel Sabitzer will both be available after serving suspensions, while