Manchester United host Barcelona in the second leg of their Europa League knockout round play-off on Thursday night, and visiting manager Xavi has caused quite a stir among the home fans in the build-up.
Speaking ahead of the game, Xavi heaped praise upon his opposite number Erik ten Hag, giving the Dutchman credit for the transformed performances of Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho this season.
But the Barca and Spain legend referenced Bruno Fernandes in rather more vague terms, calling him simply as "the Portuguese guy".
- 'I have had enough of that rubbish. I see these boys and I think you're f*cking imposters. Forget the board for a second, who do you start pointing fingers at?' Roy Keane goes on explosive rant over Bruno Fernandes, as Ian Wright challenges him
- 'I think my opinion is more important than Roy Keane's. I know as a captain he does things sometimes with his arms, criticising his team-mates, but most of all it's a bit of frustration.' - Ruben Amorim hits back in Bruno Fernandes row
In an interview with The Times, Xavi – whose side drew 2-2 with United in last week's first leg at the Camo Nou – said:
"He [Ten Hag] is very good; I like him a lot. He has built a team and is getting the best out of all his players. That speaks well of him. Tactically, he is very good and he handles the dressing room very well. He is getting all the talent out of his players. You see Sancho, Rashford, the Portuguese guy. And look how Fred is playing..."
Xavi's remark was probably a brief memory lapse on his part rather than a deliberate attempt to throw shade on United's midfield string-puller-in-chief, but it's certainly provoked a reaction from Fernandes aficionados.
United supporters have reacted in their droves on Twitter, making a point of Fernandes' phenomenal form since the beginning of November.
The 28-year-old has provided 10 assists and scored seven goals himself in 22 appearances during that period.
