Date published: Tuesday 9th April 2019 2:25
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admits it will be difficult to stop Lionel Messi but “never impossible” as Manchester United get ready to face Barcelona.
United will come up against Messi – who has scored 43 goals in all competitions so far this season – when they take on the Spanish giants at Old Trafford on Wednesday evening.
On the match itself, Solskjaer said: “Every game is the biggest game. The next one is always the biggest but of course when you get a Barcelona – with the history and traditions of that club, the quality of their team and individuals – we know we need to step up our game.
“We know we need to perform at our best level, which we didn’t against PSG in the home game. But I think the outcome of the second leg has given players belief, supporters belief that it is possible against a Barcelona team as well.”
Solskjaer acknowledged stopping Barcelona forward Messi will not be straightforward but said it is not impossible.
“What kind of plan can you have to stop one of the best players in the world? We’re looking forward to it and relishing the opportunity but this season we’ve played against Juventus and (Cristiano) Ronaldo, PSG with (Kylian) Mbappe, we’ve had (Eden) Hazard,” Solskjaer added.
“(Luis) Suarez as well. Suarez, (Philippe) Coutinho and Messi will keep our defenders on their toes so let’s see how we manage tomorrow.
“Messi will be difficult to stop but it’s never impossible. It’s not like it’s Messi against Manchester United. There are so many good players, we can’t just focus on one player.”
