FC Barcelona are currently alive in the three major competitions they're playing. First place in La Liga, semifinals in the Spanish Cup and one of the favorites to win it all in the Europa League. Furthermore, just a few weeks ago, Barcelona conquered their first title with Xavi as coach when they defeated Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are also in a major rebuilding process with Erik ten Hag as coach. So far, they've been impressive. In something which haven't occured in years, Manchester United are still in the mix for the Premier League's title, they're in the fifth round of the FA Cup and will play a final: the Carabao Cup.
So, this is a blockbuster matchup in the Europa League with two of the favorites clashing after being eliminated in the group stage at the Champions League. Read here to find out what happens if Barcelona lose to Manchester United in the knockout round playoffs.
Europa League: Are FC Barcelona eliminated if they lose to Manchester United?
If Barcelona lose to Manchester United in the second leg of the knockout round play-offs, Xavi's team will be officially eliminated from the 2022-2023 UEFA Europa League. Then, after winning the series, Manchester United would go to the Round of 16.
In case Manchester United beat Barcelona, the draw for the Round of 16 will be held on February 24th. In that stage, the winners of the play-off series will join the group stage winners of the tournament.
That's why there are already eight teams qualified for the Round of 16 in the UEFA Europa League: Fenerbahce, Real Sociedad, Real Betis, Feyenoord, Ferencvaros, Freiburg, Arsenal and Union Saint-Gilloise.
If Manchester United eliminate Barcelona, the Round of 16 in the Europa League has its first leg scheduled to be played on March 9th and the second leg on March 16th. The Red Devils would arrive as favorites to reach the final which will be played on May 31st at Budapest.
