Paul Scholes blames three Manchester United players for Barcelona opener

Paul Scholes believes three Manchester United players were culpable for Barcelona’s opening goal in their Europa League thriller.

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United and Barcelona shared a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Camp Nou with Marcos Alonso giving the hosts the lead after 50 minutes.

United came back to take the lead through goals from Marcus Rashford and an own goal from Jules Kounde but Xavi’s side drew level when Raphinha’s cross found its way into the back of the net.

While United hit back just two minutes after Alonso’s opener, Scholes and fellow former United midfielder Owen Hargeaves were critical of Tyrell Malacia, who lost the former Chelsea star has he darted in at the back post.

Scholes also believed midfielder Fred was at fault for not providing support for his teammate, also questioning David de Gea’s goalkeeping after being beaten at his near post.

‘When you look at the first goal it is Malacia who doesn’t pick up Alonso, he lets him free, really, Scholes told BT Sport.

‘It is only a basic bit of movement from Alonso that loses him too. Fred as well, probably didn’t challenge as well as he could.

‘It is a basic bit of movement from Alonso and Malacia doesn’t stay with him.

‘I also think the goalkeeper should do better, it goes in quite easily at that near post. David looks a little bit worried about colliding with the post.

‘But Malacia there, he has to stay with him and when he doesn’t, Fred has to cover, ‘my mate has made a mistake, I’ve got to cover for him’. But he doesn’t do that.’

Hargraves added manager Erik ten Hag would have been disappointed with United’s defending from set plays.

‘Whether it is the Champions League or Europa League, the margins are so fine. If you are given a job you have to do it. I think Erik ten Hag will be disappointed.’

United and Barcelona meet again at Old Trafford next Thursday with the winner set to progress into the last 16 of the competition.

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