~snip~
Both Barcelona and Manchester United have strong squads. There are many star players in their squad. But despite having a lot of talented players, the two teams are still not stable. And so the performance of these two teams against each other cannot be predicted now. Their performance will depend on Xavi and Ten Hag's match strategy. Both the teams will become stronger if the match strategy and bonding between the players is good. Both have the propensity to win the Europa League title. But since the first match is Barcelona's home match. So I will put Barcelona ahead in this match. Barcelona is very strong at home.
Both teams have made improvements this season , a lot different from the previous season. Barcelona had quite a tough time in the champions leagues and got kicked out in the group stages of the competition while Manchester United are looking to continue their campaign in the Europa league after the break. Their meeting in the playoffs will show how well both teams have improved and are ready to compete in European top competitions this season. Both have good squads and capabilities to win, I believe the game can go either way.
Trom the pattern and style of play, Manchester United is better than Barcelona. and how come, because in my personal opinion, Ten Hag has better abilities than Xavi for his Barcelona. just look, now Manchester United is better under the tutelage of Erik Ten Hag. while Barcelona, actually they have players who have quality in their respective lines. it's just that, the problem is with Xavi.
I don't understand the patterns and strategies that Xavi applies to his troops. Barcelona's defeat in the Champoins League was purely wrong with Xavi's strategy and some of his players. it could be, Xavi repeated the same mistake when Barcelona met Manchester United in the playoffs later. when it comes to player depth, I don't doubt it. especially for Lewandowski, it's just that Barcelona's midfielders still need a lot of experience. plus, Raphinha's performance is very dubious. however, I hope Xavi has learned from his mistakes and the weaknesses of his team.
On the United side, Manchester United could have transformed into a team that is able to compete with teams that are above their level for now. there is only one problem left, Ten Hag needs a pure sticker, plus an attacking midfielder. If United get him in January, the playoff game will be even more difficult for us to predict.