European football is back as the knockout stages have kicked off for UEFA Champions League and Europa League. FC Barcelona faced Manchester United in the first leg of the pay-offs in the Europa League, which ended in a draw with a 2-2 score line.
However, the scoreline is not the only factor from the first leg that will have an impact on the second leg of the tie. Barcelona lost Pedri to an injury in the match, while Gavi also had a yellow card which will result in a suspension for the youngster in the second leg, as he has accumulated 3 yellow cards in the tournament.
Furthermore, Sergio Busquets has also missed some of the recent matches and it is doubtful if he will be 100% fit for the second leg, while Ousmane Dembele is also out with an injury.
However, injuries and absences are also an issue for the opposition, as they are expected to miss Antony, Harry Maguire, and Anthony Martial for this match as per the reports from Mundo Deportivo. However, these players have not fully been ruled out of the tie and can make an appearance if their condition allows. This is not the case for Donny van de Beek and Christian Ericksen though, who are still out with their knee and ankle injuries respectively.
Manchester United will still be in a better position than the first leg, as they can count on the services of Austrian midfielder Marcel Sabitzer and Argentine World Cup winner Lisandro Martinez, who did not feature in the match last Thursday.
Furthermore, Casemiro is also available to Ten Haag fully rested, as he missed the league match due to a suspension. Scott McTominay has also fully recovered and can play the match.
