Manchester United midfielder, Fred, has reiterated that the vociferous fans at Old Trafford will help spur the team to victory against Barcelona in the Europa League knockout stages.

Recall that The Red Devils finished second in their Europa League group, meaning they advanced to the playoff round, where they would face Barcelona, who dropped down from the Champions League.

Barcelona will host the first leg on February 16 before the clash will conclude at Old Trafford seven days later.

United and Barcelona have played each other 13 times previously, including in three European finals.

Ten of their 13 meetings have been in the Champions League but this will be their first competitive meeting in another tournament since 1991.

However, the Brazilian international, in a chat with Manchester United’s official website, stated that they are optinistic of overcoming Barcelona.

“We know that Barcelona is a great team,” Fred told Manchester United’s official website.

“It won’t be an easy game, there are no easy games in the Europa League. It will be a great game, I’m sure we are ready for it.

“We players like playing in great fixtures like these ones, and we are prepared for this game. God willing, we’ll qualify for the next round.

“Our stadium has always had a great atmosphere with the fans constantly behind us,” the Brazilian added.

He said further: “I’m sure they will be here against Barcelona supporting us, they will give us strength to get the win. That’s why it’s so important to play in front of our fans and get a result here.”


Source:https://www.completesports.com/europa-league-old-trafford-atmosphere-will-subdue-barca-fred/