Manchester United predicted line-up vs Barcelona as Casemiro, Varane and Garnacho start

Manchester United will be going in search of the upper hand when they face Spanish heavyweights Barcelona in the first-leg of their Europa League knockout round play-off tie at the Camp Nou on Thursday evening.

United, who have not tasted victory over the La Liga giants since April 2008, will be looking to build on Sunday's 2-0 triumph over rivals Leeds United and put themselves in a strong position ahead of the return leg at Old Trafford next week. The Reds, who defeated Leeds with late goals from Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho, missed out on top spot in their Europa League group on goal difference, meaning they must navigate their way through two clashes with Barcelona to reach the last-16.

United and Barcelona are among the favourites to win the Europa League this season, along with the likes of Arsenal and Juventus, meaning both sides will fancy their chances of going the full distance if victorious at the end of this two-legged showdown. Barcelona dropped into the competition after crashing out of the Champions League in the group stage.

READ MORE: Xavi issues Erik ten Hag verdict ahead of Barcelona vs United tie

After three Premier League fixtures in just over a week, United will no doubt welcome the break from domestic action and be licking their lips at the challenge of facing Barcelona, who they have faced in several iconic fixtures down the years. Manager Erik ten Hag has treated the Europa League with the utmost respect this season, and that trend will continue in Spain.

David de Gea has started every fixture in the competition so far this season and that theme is set to continue against the five-times Champions League winners. He has kept four clean sheets during those six appearances and adding a