Manchester United vs Barcelona: Pre-Match Analysis

#2 Experience

FC Barcelona squad

Another factor that might benefit Valverde’s Barcelona is their experienced squad. Players like Suarez, Busquets, Vidal, Messi, Pique, and Alba are Champions League veterans. They have been in this situation numerous times. This will clearly give an edge to Barcelona against a pretty inexperienced and young side like Manchester United.

#3 Fewer distractions

Barcelona sit 11 points clear at the top of the La Liga table. After beating Atletico Madrid, their path towards the La Liga title is clearer than ever. Barring some erratic wobble that might come up at the closing stages of the season, they have more or less wrapped up the title. Their only other major game is against Valencia in the final of the Copa del Ray on 25th May. Clearly, their focus would be on winning the Champions League. Compare that to Manchester United, who are involved in a hotly contested top 4 battle.

#4 Second leg at home

Camp Nou

Barcelona were to host Manchester United at home first, before going to Old Trafford for the second leg. However, due to Machester City’s home leg against Tottenham falling around the same time, the fixtures were reversed. Barcelona will now go to Old Trafford for the first leg before hosting Manchester United at Camp Nou for the second leg.

This reversal of fixtures has given Barcelona a slight advantage. Playing the second leg in front of the home crowd will give them confidence. They'll be positive of picking a result against United in front of their home crowd.