Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will have to mastermind another successful away leg result if Manchester United are to avoid elimination from the Champions League on Tuesday night.
The Norwegian takes his side to Camp Nou where they must overturn a 1-0 deficit following Barcelona‘s victory at Old Trafford last week.
Here, we look at the key tactics he may employ.
Click here to read Barca’s key tactics.
MIDFIELD DOUBLE PIVOT
The tie remains finely poised and a 4-2-3-1 formation may help Solskjaer find the sweet spot between defence and attack. With Nemanja Matic back fit and Scott McTominay rested over the weekend, United could field a double pivot with Paul Pogba given licence to attack ahead of them.
The defensive midfield duo would be tasked with containing Barcelona in the middle of the park while serving as a launching pad for attacks in the transition, unleashing the front four when the opportunity presents itself.
With the energy he possesses, McTominay can even join in the attack on occasion with Matic’s presence offering insurance, especially when the full-backs get involved as well.
CONTAINING BARCA’S LEFT FLANK
A banged-up Lionel Messi was hardly in his element at Old Trafford but even then he managed to produce the decisive moment. Attempts to shadow the Argentine are futile but nullifying the tools he uses most is a viable ploy.
Ousmane Dembele’s likely return to the starting XI should strengthen Barca’s left flank, boosting Messi’s link-up play and service.
Deploying McTominay on the right of a midfield double pivot would help keep Dembele and Jordi Alba in check. Ashley Young was poor in the first leg but should retain his spot as that would allow Diogo Dalot to occupy the right flank ahead of him, offering more cover in defence in tandem with drive and quality delivery in attack.
