Former Barcelona man highlights key advantage ahead of Manchester United clash

Former Barcelona midfielder Gaizka Mendieta believes the Blaugrana's defensive consistency will be the key to them winning a tightly-contested Europa League clash against Manchester United.

Erik ten Hag's side face Barcelona at the Camp Nou on Thursday evening in the first leg of their play-off round. Xavi's side were knocked out of the Champions League at the group stages, their draw against United setting up a mouthwatering two-legged affair.

Both sides return to European action in scintillating form, with Barcelona eight points clear at the top of La Liga while the Reds continue to cement their place in the top-four amid faint talk of a title challenge. That form combined with the size and history of both clubs will make for a memorable affair, and former Camp Nou favourite Mendieta believes it will be the Spanish giants who come out on top.

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"I think that Manchester United fans will agree with me that it's a shame that this game comes now, because it could have perfectly been a Champions League game," Mendieta told 90min. "I think it's great because for us, for any football fan, it comes at probably the best moment. Both teams are really at the peak of their performances, both individually and collectively.

"Barça are trying to secure La Liga, it's still early but at least to keep that distance with Real Madrid. For Man Utd, trying to climb up and get in the top four, trying to back to where, as a club in history, they deserve. A Champions League game playing out on a Thursday."

Asked for his prediction, the Spaniard said explained: "I'd go Barça, but it could be either way because I think, especially with the way Man Utd are attacking, but why I think Barça have