@Minor Miner I have said this before too and Ill repeat that Im pretty sure that Barcelona doesnt care about winning the Europa League, because theyre genuinely close to winning the La Liga title hence it doesnt make any sense for them to prioritise playing on Thursday night. Furthermore Manchester United can unlock their defence because of the pace of Rashford and hes in phenomenal form, hence Im 100% sure that Manchester United shall win against Barcelona and progress ahead.
On several occasions, Xavi said that Barcelona is serious about targeting this competition trophy. even one of their strikers, Lewandowski, once said that he and his colleagues had the ambition to win the Europa League trophy. so it's clear that Xavi really cares about this competition trophy besides prioritizing winning the La Liga trophy.
I can't predict what will happen in the match between Barcelona vs Manchester United. because after all, this fight is a crucial match for both teams. plus, their coaches will compete tactics and strategies.
IMO from my point of view both coaches will focus on the midfield battle. why, because Barcelona have an advantage in their midfield over Manchester United. just relying on Casemiro, that's not enough, Ten Hag needs a tactic to counter the midfielder that Barcelona has.
This fight is a tactical war game. and if Xavi applies his formation like the El Clasico match, by relying on two Pivots and two attacking midfielders plus Dembele and placing Lewandowski as the sole striker. I'm pretty sure Man United will have a hard time facing Barcelona. however, we will find out later after this bout has taken place.