lankyguy007Here's how I would play if I was manager of both teams. Abidal may well not be fit for the final so Puyol may well end up playing at left back. Other than that, pretty much as expected for Barca.

In terms of Man United's team I would play deep and compact with emphasis on quick counter attacks through long balls behind the defence and to the wings. I think the middle of the pitch is where Man United will have to play well if they are going to win the match. If Fletcher doesn't play then I would play Park up against Iniesta as I feel Carrick defensively won't be able to cope with Iniesta well enough. Giggs will be up positionally against Xavi and will have to have a good game. I would leave Carrick as a spare man, mainly because of Messi dropping deep. This would cause all sorts of troubles for United so if Carrick plays there it means he can cover for Park and Giggs and keep an eye on Messi. In an attacking sense it also means that he might have more space to play long balls forward on the counter attack, similarly with Giggs as well.

I've gone with Nani on the left because I feel there has to be someone with energy in the middle against Xavi and Iniesta which is why if Fletcher doesn't play then Park should go there. Therefore I'd take a risk with Nani because of his threat with his skill, pace and ability to unlock defences. Also he could give Alves a good challenge in the air which I think could be a key area for United going forward.

Valencia has played very well in recent weeks and because of his energy and pace as well as his ability to get good crosses in, he will be key for United going forward particularly if he is up against a makeshift left back.

28.05.2011