Barcelona star Ivan Rakitic has warned his club not treat Manchester United with levity as the two clubs spoil for a showdown in the Champions League quarter-final this month.

The Old Trafford club have witnessed tremendous improvement in their game since Ole Gunner Solskjaer took over from former manager Jose Mourinho

The midfielder therefore believes the Catalan giants need to ‘respect’ the English club in the Champions League cracker.

“We saw how good they were and we know English clubs are strong at the moment,” Rakitic told journalist Andy Mitten in GQ Magazine.

“Man United are having good results and to score three goals in Paris was incredible. You have to respect Manchester for this comeback, for the organisation and fight in the team with so many young players.

“I have a lot of respect for the British people and the passion which they have for football, the full stadiums.

“You have to know your best side, and the new Man United manager seems to know that. If you have to fight a bit more or play counter-attacking then you do what is best.

“A lot of teams would like to play like Barcelona and have possession. But if you have possession and you lose the game finally, then it’s for nothing and I would not be happy.”

Photo Credit: marca.com