Xavi Hernandez has put Barcelona's defeat to Manchester United in the Europa League play-offs down to "fine details."
The Barca boss couldn't guide his team past Erik ten Hag's in-form United side, who came from behind to book their place in the last 16, winning 2-1. Xavi's men had taken the lead in the 18th minute after Robert Lewandowski scored a penalty, but second-half strikes from Fred and Antony gave United a deserved victory following a thrilling 2-2 draw in the first leg at the Camp Nou last Thursday.
Speaking after the match, Xavi admitted that Barcelona ultimately couldn't cope with their opponents' improved performance after a disappointing first-half display. "United were very intense in that second half," the Spaniard told a post-match press conference. "They are in very good form at the moment and are very good at home. It is those fine details that made all the difference."