Emery draws eye-catching comparison between struggling Man Utd and Barcelona ahead of Old Trafford visit

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has claimed that facing Manchester United at Old Trafford presents the same elite challenge as playing Spanish giants Barcelona, according to GOAL.​

Emery’s comments came following Villa’s 3-0 Champions League defeat in Catalonia, as his side prepares for Sunday’s Premier League trip to the North West.

Despite United’s miserable domestic form under Michael Carrick—having managed just one league victory this season—Emery refused to underestimate the hosts while attempting to break his personal winless record at the venue.​

“We performed like we planned [against Barcelona] but it was not enough, because the level we were facing, this is the highest level for the Premier League and Champions League matches,” Emery stated.

“On Sunday, Manchester United – it’s the same level as Barcelona. So this is the work we are trying to set with the players, of course very, very demanding.”​ Villa have suffered defeat on their last six visits to Old Trafford across all competitions.