15 February 2023 , 13:02
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Barcelona coach Xavi has hailed Marcus Rashford as one of the best strikers in Europe ahead of tomorrow's Europa League showdown with Manchester United.
Rashford is enjoying his most prolific season, with 21 goals, including 13 in his last 15 games for United, since returning from the World Cup in Qatar, where he scored three for England.
Ahead of tomorrow's first-leg of their play-off tie in the Nou Camp, Xavi identified Rashford as one of the biggest threats to Barcelona's hopes of progressing to the knockout stage.
"Rashford is one of the most dangerous strikers, yes," said Xavi. "He's very fast, a good dribbler, good in one on ones and very dangerous in the transitions.
"We need to take care of all of United's players, but Rashford is certainly one of the most dangerous in Europe."
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United boss Erik ten Hag said the showdown between his side and Barca was worthy of the final, with Xavi acknowledging the meeting as one between two fallen giants who are on their way back.
While United are third in the Premier League, just five points off leaders Arsenal in Ten Hag's first season in charge, Barca are 11 points clear at the top of La Liga and on course to lift the title.
Marcus Rashford is in great goalscoring form (Offside via Getty Images)Can Barcelona stop Manchester United and Marcus Rashford in the Europa League? Have your say in the comments below
Xavi: “We are in a very good moment, both teams, when it comes to our form and level of fitness. I think it's been a while since we have been back on track and it's the same for them, too. United are a very powerful team with a very strong defence, so they can make our life difficult tomorrow.
"I am expecting a very intense match with a very fast pace. Premier League matches are quite demanding and we are in Europe, but we want to prove that we are at that level.
“We're playing in the Europa League and don't deserve to be in the Champions League - nor do they.
"But United are in a very positive moment in terms of their growth. If you compare now to the start of the season, they are very strong today, so it should be a very spectacular match."
“When we play against these kinds of clubs, it's a big club in Europe. United are not in the best moment, but we know their history, we respect Erik ten Hag, they have had some good results in recent weeks, so it will be really tough to beat them."