Manchester United will be facing Barcelona on the road in the first leg of the Europa League knockout play-off this evening.
The club have a huge test on their hands against the La Liga leaders and manager Erik ten Hag will be expecting his players to rise up to the challenge.
With several injuries and suspensions, Ten Hag has a limited squad at his disposal. Here are three stars that have a point to prove at the Camp Nou today.
Wout Weghorst
The Dutchman joined the Red Devils on loan from Burnley after an impressive stint at Besiktas where he scored nine goals and provided four assists in 18 matches.
The 30-year-old was also superb for his country at the World Cup. He scored two late goals against Argentina in the quarter-final before they lost on penalties.
Since his move to United, he has struggled to replicate the same form. In his eight appearances, the striker has just two goal contributions – one of those being an assist.
Ten Hag is likely to trust him to lead the attack again and he needs to be more involved in the box for United if they want to secure a positive result at the Camp Nou.
Tyrell Malacia
With Lisandro Martinez suspended, Luke Shaw is expected to continue in the left centre-back role. This automatically opens up a spot for Malacia in the left-back position.
The 23-year-old has had an impressive debut season where he has caught the eye with his strong tackles and ability to win duels. However, he has not offered much going forward.
Against Barcelona, Malacia has a challenge on his hands against Raphinha and Jules Kounde. Marcus Rashford should provide defensive cover, but Malacia must not lose concentration.
Raphinha has been a player transformed in recent weeks. He has three goal involvements in his last three league outings and Malacia will have to curb the offensive threat of the Brazilian.
Jadon Sancho
With Antony injured, Jadon Sancho looks likely to start on the right wing ahead of Alejandro Garnacho, who is not a natural from the position. He has a big point to prove.
The 22-year-old had a lively return to Premier League action this month, scoring a late equaliser against Leeds at home. In the reverse fixture, he created a big chance for Bruno Fernandes.
Sancho is likely to be rewarded with another start on the right flank. Ten Hag may also consider swapping Rashford and Sancho out wide, based on how they fare against the full-backs.
The England star has scored in his only previous appearance at Camp Nou. He has the chance to replicate the feat this evening and cement his place in the starting XI for upcoming games.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
