Following one of the most thrilling European matches you’ll see this season, the Blaugrana of Catalonia faced the Reds of Manchester in an exhilarating 2-2 draw.
Despite some rather suspicious decision-making by the referee, both teams did well to deserve at the very least a point each. Here are how the players fared during this matchup:
Player Ratings:
Ter Stegen: 8.0
Immense presence and incredible reflexes when called upon, Ter Stegen was pivotal in rescuing the spoils to whatever degree they ended up being rescued. Brilliant performance from the German international.
Jordi Alba: 6.5
The veteran was almost everywhere. Darting forward to allow his team to have outlets to utilize on the left-hand flank of Barcelona’s attack and continued to provide width, as well as tracking back as much as possible defensively as well.
Marcos Alonso: 6.5
Scored the opener but was also questionable in United’s first goal, the defender was solid regardless though. One of the Spaniard’s better showings for the Catalans.
Jules Kounde: 6.0
Arguably one of Barcelona’s most reliable defenders, the Frenchman had quite the off day at the office. Rather sluggish and rusty at times, the player was operating at a level well below him on the day.
Ronald Araujo: 7.5
A rock for most of the game in his success of keeping Manchester United at bay, there were some very risky slip-ups that may have caused Barcelona to lose this game on another day.
Franck Kessie: 7.5
A dominant figure in the heart of the midfield, but also one that was technically superb on the night. Composed on the ball and showed his technicality off the ball when called upon.
Frenkie De Jong: 8.0
The Dutchman was phenomenal. Turning, twisting, and bamboozling all those that followed or pressed him. His vision and composure on the ball indefinitely helped FC Barcelona a lot tonight.
Pedri: 7.0
Despite getting Barcelona off to a good start against United, Pedri was soon forced off with an injury to his right thigh during the first half. His absence will be a sore miss for the Catalans.
Gavi: 7.0
Strong on the ball as usual but unfortunately ended up being harsh with his decision-making off the ball. Picked up a yellow card while tracking down Bruno Fernandez and ended up getting suspended for the second leg at Old Trafford.
Robert Lewandowski: 7.0
The Polish striker was a completely different player early on in the game as compared to his version later on. From being quick on his feet and dispatching quality shots without hesitance, to later deforming to poor control and hesitant decision making. Not his day.
Raphinha: 8.0
Barcelona’s most potent threat tonight in terms of goal contribution and unnerving the United defense and keeper all night long. Left the pitch frustrated with his substitution, and understandably so given his crucial goal and assist.
Substitutes:
Sergi Roberto: 5.0
Was more or less just present in the midfield. Managed to offer nothing close to the dynamism and creative effectiveness that Pedri would typically offer.
Alejandro Balde: 6.5
A crucial substitute that should have begun the game, Balde’s speed and explosiveness really put United at the edge after his substitution.
Ansu Fati: 6.5
Constantly managed to test David De Gea, albeit to the extent of quality of shots that may have fared way better had they been given more chances to.
Andreas Christensen: 7.0
Similar to Balde, Christensen’s arrival made Barcelona feel much more like a unit again. The Danish defender remains composed and reliable in moments of pressure such as tonight’s game.
Ferran Torres: N/A
Not enough time to warrant a rating