Xavi recalls Beckham's goal during Spaniard's first game at Old Trafford

The 42-year-old heads to the Theatre of Dreams on Thursday night hoping his side can seal safe passage into the Europa League last-16 at United's expense.

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The two sides produced a scintillating 2-2 draw at the Nou Camp last Thursday and neutrals will be hoping for more of the same in the playoff round second leg.

Xavi became embroiled in a number of fierce battles with English sides over the years but his first Champions League encounter in England was one that stood out above the others.

"The first time in England was against United. We drew 3-3. It was in the group stage of the 1998 season and I think we literally kicked off and [David] Beckham nailed it in the top corner — what a start!," the 2010 World Cup winner explained.

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"Good thing, we eventually drew, with a goal from Luis Enrique. They had a great team, spectacular: Beckham, [Ryan] Giggs, [Paul] Scholes, [Gary] Neville, Roy Keane. Though we weren't bad either, eh: Rivaldo, [Phillip] Cocu, [Luís] Figo."

Incredibly, United and Barcelona drew 3-3 again in the return fixture in Catalonia which was enough to see United advance to the quarter-final stage with eventual group winners Bayern Munich.

Sir Alex Ferguson's side went on the lift the trophy at the Nou Camp later that season in what turned out to be a historic treble-winning campaign.

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United fans will be hoping a win on Thursday night can propel Eirk ten Hag's side to Europa League glory in Budapest in May.

Key to the Red Devils' ambitions is the form and fitness of Marcus Rashford who is arguably in the best form of his career.

The 25-year-old has netted 24 goals across all competitions with 13 comign since the turn of the year.

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Rashford played a huge part in last week's thriller, registering a goal and an assist and Xavi knows the size of the task his defenders face in nullifying his threat.

He added: "Rashford is an exceptional footballer, in extraordinary form. He can make the difference for Manchester United.

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"They are one of the best teams in Europe, they're showing it in the way the compete and play."

"It's the best Man United in a few years. That's the work Ten Hag has done."