Xavi Bemoans "No Luck" And "Worst Draw" After Barcelona Get Man United In Europa League

Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez does not believe that Monday's UEFA Europa League draw could have gone any worse for his team.

The Catalan giants were drawn to face Manchester United in the knockout round play-offs.

Other potential opponents had included Roma, PSV Eindhoven, Monaco and Union Berlin.

"It is the most difficult opponent once again. But we will look forward to it," Xavi said at a press conference after the draw, as translated by GOAL.

"They are a historic side, they have grown a lot with the arrival of [Erik] ten Hag, they have great players.

"It's the worst draw we could have got. Once again. No luck."

Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez had been hoping for an easier route to the round of 16

IMAGO/Jose Breton

Barcelona were demoted to the Europa League after finishing third in a very tough Champions League group, behind Bayern Munich and Inter Milan.

Xavi's side also dropped down from the UCL to the UEL last season when they were drawn against Napoli at this stage.

After beating Napoli impressively 5-3 on aggregate, Barca edged past Galatasaray in the round of 16, but they were knocked out by Eintracht Frankfurt in the quarter-finals.

Barcelona have played Man United 13 times previously and have only lost three of those games.

The first leg will take place on February 16 at the Camp Nou before Old Trafford hosts the return match seven days later.

SEE MORE: Barcelona Vs Manchester United: Head To Head Record And Previous Results