Manchester United Might Actually Be Back to Their Very Best

• Manchester United saw off Barcelona on Thursday to advance to the next round of the Europa League
• It was another comprehensive performance from Erik Ten Hag’s side, who are showing glimpses of their glory days under sir Alex Ferguson
• The Red Devils have an outside chance of winning the quadruple as they are still in all four competitions
• They will now set their sights on the Carabao Cup where they will face Newcastle in the final

Another day, another win for Manchester United, who are proving to be the real deal under Erik Ten Hag.

After arguably one of the most entertaining games of the season on Thursday, February 16 between United and Barcelona which ended in a 2-2 draw. The two sides met again at Old Trafford for a chance to advance to the last 16 of the Europa League.

Man United sweating on fitness of 3 key players ahead of Barcelona cracker at Old Trafford

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The game certainly lived up to the hype, as Barcelona went ahead through a Robert Lewandowski penalty, sending slight panic across the Stretford end.

A second half tactical tweak proved to work wonders for Erik Ten Hag’s side, who turned the game on its head thanks to goals from Fred and Antony.

A perfect result for United, who are still in the running in all four competitions they are involved in.

Was Ten Hag the missing piece?

Prior to the Barcelona clash, Ten Hag was spotted having dinner with the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson, who is synonymous with trophies at Manchester United.

The Dutchman went on to admit Ferguson’s input has been crucial for him and United, especially in crucial games.

"I always enjoy speaking with people who have a lot of knowledge and experience, and he wants to share it. He wants to help and support.” Ten Hag said as quoted on Sky.

Ten Hag meets Ferguson ahead of Man Utd v Barcelona clash

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The fact that Ten Hag is actually willing to learn from the legend could be a prelude of much better things for United, and it is showing in the team’s results, especially since the conclusion of the Qatar World Cup.

Sports Brief takes a look at some pointers that United could be heading back to their glory days:

1. Only English side competing for four trophies

Despite a slow start to the campaign, United now find themselves competing for the Europa League, Premier League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup.

Sunday, February 26 will provide a first opportunity to win their first trophy since 2017 when they take on Newcastle in the Carabao Cup.

2. Can take on big sides

It is safe to say United this season are certainly up for the challenge especially when it comes to the so-called big games.

Prior to this season, United always seemed to go into games against the big guns as underdogs, but that has proven not to be the case this campaign.

Erik ten Hag reveals what he discussed with Sir Alex Ferguson during dinner meeting

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Notably, United have beaten teams like runaway league leaders Arsenal, Manchester City, Tottenham, and more recently, Barcelona.

3. A sense of togetherness in the team

On Thursday, fans got to witness scenes reminiscent of Alex Ferguson’s days as the United players exhibited passion and dedication to getting a positive result against Barcelona.

One standout image was the duo of Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez both hailing each other the same way Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic used to do.

4. Ten Hag’s win percentage

Erik ten Hag has managed 38 games as United manager, coming up with 28 wins, which means he has an astounding 74% win percentage.

In addition, his team has kept an impressive 18 clean sheets and scored 75 goals and counting, which is a clear indication of progress under the Dutchman.

5. Old Trafford’s fear factor

Back in Sir Alex Ferguson’s days, Old Trafford was one of the most difficult stadiums to collect a win for opponents.

Top 5 reasons why Man United can beat Barcelona ahead of Old Trafford showdown

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Amid turbulent times at their home stadium in recent seasons, United seem to have regained their edge with the fans as the 12th man.

The Red Devils have not lost at the stadium in their last 18 games, scoring 41 goals and conceding just 9 in that time.