Xavi looking for 'passion' against Manchester United

Barça coach Xavi Hernández appeared confident and expectant in his appearance before the press ahead of Thursday's Europa League second leg play off against Manchester United. 

"We want to take the initiative with the ball, above all in our opponents half," explained the former Barça player. The blaugrana coach also outlined the need for "attitude, passion and intensity" in the absence of midfielders Pedri and Gavi. "They are two important absentees but we have alternatives to deal with that," said Xavi. 

"Old Trafford is the perfect place to change Barça's story in Europe of the last few years. We are up against a resurgent Manchester United and that is an inspiration to change the recent trend," explained the boss. The change of mentality in the team has been aided by the arrival of Lewandowski according to Xavi: "He has changed the mentality of the team and of the Club. He's a player who brings us a lot: he scores, creates, defends."  

Old Trafford where Xavi made European debut 

The stadium nicknamed the 'Theatre of Dreams' is where Xavi Hernández made his European debut as a Barça player. "Manchester brings me great memories; also due to the two Champions League finals we won against them," said the coach whose focus this season is now on the Europa League.