‘Fear of what?’ – Xavi Insists Barcelona Aren’t Afraid Of Playing At Old Trafford

Before Thursday’s crucial Europa League encounter against Manchester United, Barcelona manager Xavi emphasized that his team has nothing to fear.

The match is in a precarious position after a thrilling first leg that ended 2-2 at Camp Nou last week. Due to the outcome, Xavi’s team must win at Old Trafford in order to avoid extra time and penalties. However, given that United has only suffered one home loss all season, this may not be an easy task.

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Xavi stated that he will use the gravity of the circumstance and environment as a source of inspiration rather than fear.

“Fear? Fear of what? On the contrary, Old Trafford motivates [us],” the Barca boss told The Times ahead of the match. “It is one of those stadiums where you want to play at least once in your life, where you have to get the best out of yourself.

“We have to be brave, go all out for the game without complexities. It’s like at the Bernabeu, you have to be brave. And to be a great team you have to win at those grounds. And we want to be a great team. That’s how I see it.”

In the 14 head-to-head matches between the two teams, Barcelona has an advantage, winning six of them to United’s three (five have ended in a draw).

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The Spanish manager will oversee Barca’s next league game on the road at Almeria on Sunday after taking his courageous team out at Old Trafford.