Erik Ten Hag by now is one step ahead towards creating a strong wall of defense against Barcelona in order not to allow a chance of penetration from their forward players, just like Dembele and Lewandowski who are very dangerous when allowed to break into a defensive line. Their matchup with each other came at a very early time but watching the game now when the two teams are in top form makes it more intriguing to watch.
Dembele will not be playing against MU during the continuation of europa league for the match between MU against Barcelona. Raphinha will be replacing dembele and i believe raphinha is far garbage compared with dembele. MU's defenders will able to protect rapinha easily while the problem is now Lewandowski. I think mu needs to learn from the play style that has used by bayern against Barcelona. intermilan was also showing good play about how to prevent Barcelona.
Dembele will not be a threat for MU caused by be will absent from the game against MU. Im so happy to see that one of main player from Barcelona won't play.
You forgot something. Barcelona still has Gavi, Pedri and De Jong. Xavi, knows very well that he will not always rely solely on Dembele let alone Raphina. let's see, how Xavi has learned from his failure in the Champions League. plus, his defeat against Madrid in the first meeting of La Liga.
At least currently, Barcelona are a bit more settled in terms of games after the second half of the season rolled back. Barcelona appear quite consistent with a stable performance. even in his 19 matches in the Domestic League, Barcelona only conceded seven goals. the bonds of the players are starting to show positive signals, especially their midfield players who are starting to show maturity.
and how it was when Barcelona toppled Real Madrid in the supercopa de espana final. it is clear that Barcelona is starting to find its rhythm, especially De Jong's role as a pivot.
So, the fight will be very difficult for United. plus, Eriksen's absence will have a big impact in the match later. IMO, in the end this fight depends on how the two coaches apply their strategies and prepare their respective teams.
Barcelona's team has become truly extraordinary these days. Xavi has worked hard to build the team . All the young midfielders in the Barcelona team who are doing great. One of them is Pedri, Gavi. I see the future of these two players very good.