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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Kyle Newbould

Dwight Yorke makes Manchester United Europa League prediction ahead of Barcelona clash

Dwight Yorke believes Manchester United will make it to the Europa League final, should they progress past Barcelona in their play-off round.

United travel to the Camp Nou on Thursday evening, needing a play-off round to progress into the last-16. Erik ten Hag's side failed to top their group in the first half of the season, missing out to Real Sociedad on goal difference.

That meant a play-off round against a third-placed Champions League team with a draw against Barcelona arguably the toughest of the lot. Xavi's side have been in scintillating form this season, a run of 11 straight wins across all competitions leaving them top of La Liga and into the latter stages of their domestic cup competitions.

LIVE: Latest United news, views and Barcelona build-up

And with two huge names meeting so early on in the knockout rounds, a potentially huge hurdle can be passed early doors - with former Reds striker Yorke believing the winner of the tie will go all the way to the final.

"Barcelona is a very good test for Manchester United," Yorke told OLBG. "They're playing very well and are top of La Liga, and that's for a reason. I expect a very entertaining game.

"Players that Manchester United will have to look out for are Robert Lewandowski, Pedri and Gavi. They will worry us and they all play for Barcelona for a reason.

"It will be an open game with very good players on either side of the team. Barcelona like to keep the ball and Manchester United are good on the counter-attack so it will be a very exciting game to watch.

"You can't rule Arsenal out, but I'd say the winner of Manchester United vs Barcelona will be in the Europa League final. To win it is another thing, but one of those teams will be in the final."

Following Thursday's clash in Spain, United will welcome Barcelona to Old Trafford on Thursday, February 23.

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