Hundreds of Barcelona football fans were pictured enjoying the Manchester sun - and hospitality - in the city centre today ahead of tonight's mouth-watering Europa League tie against Manchester United.
As is now commonplace on big European nights in Manchester, hoards of Barca fans were captured in fine voice at Shambles Square.
FC Barcelona flags were shown hanging down from the widows of Sinclair's Oyster Bar as supporters gathered outside enjoyed a good-natured singalong. An umbrella was hoisted into the air and beer flew as one song reached its rousing chorus.
The spoils were shared last Thursday at the Nou Camp, where Erik Ten Hag's men impressed in a 2-2 draw that could easily have been a victory. A week on from Catalunya, tonight's return leg of the knockout round play-off is sure to play out in front of a packed out Old Trafford.
"Two, big great teams facing each other at Old Trafford. It will be a massive atmosphere, a great ambience. I think it's the best you can get," said Ten Hag.
Barca will be without talented midfielders Pedri and Gavi following the first leg, whereas Lisandro Martinez and Marcel Sabitzer are available for United having been suspended for the first leg in Spain.
Scott McTominay was absent through injury but returned to the squad on Sunday, while there is further good news on the fitness of winger Antony and captain Harry Maguire. Antony has not played since the 2-1 win against Crystal Palace on February 4, while the United skipper watched from the stands against former club Leicester due to a minor knock.
However, Ten Hag says Anthony Martial – who has only played 14 times in all competitions this season – remains absent. Tonight's tie comes just days ahead of the League Cup final for United against Newcastle at Wembley on Sunday.
Speaking on Wednesday, said United need to be at their very best to knock out Barca. "It's not about credit, it's about trophies," he said.
"We have the opportunity, but the first focus point is always the next game and in that league we can’t win the trophy this week. We have to go from game and game with the focus, but especially we have to keep in the same mindset that every day we want to give a better version of ourselves.
"We are sure when you face such big teams as Barcelona you have to play your best, otherwise you don’t have a chance. We want to get through, to go to the next round, so tomorrow, really, we have to give the best performance from this season.
"We believe in it, we’re looking forward to it, so it gives a lot of energy."
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