Barcelona head coach Xavi has revealed that he congratulated Manchester United stars Casemiro and Raphael Varane after his team was eliminated from the UEFA Europa League by the Red Devils on Thursday night.

Xavi watched as two goals from Fred and Anthony ensured Manchester United defeated Barcelona 2-1 in the Europa League playoff second-leg tie at Old Trafford.

Robert Lewandowski scored a penalty for the Spanish La Liga giants against Erik ten Hag’s side.

Xavi’s men were knocked out of the Europa League on a 4-3 aggregate, having played 2-2 in the first leg last week at Camp Nou.

The result against Manchester United put an end to Xavi’s hopes of achieving success in Europe this season.

Speaking at his post-match press conference after the game, Xavi said he displayed his professionalism by congratulating Casemiro and Varane.

Xavi said [in Football Espaa]: “I spoke to Casemiro and Varane." "I have respect for [Manchester] United, and congratulations to them.”