Manchester United hope to imitate their domestic success when they take on hosts Barcelona in the first-leg of the Champions League semis on Wednesday. United lead the Premiership and are the absolute favorites to win the title. Now, manager Alex Ferguson wants to reach the European final through the Nou Camp, which witnessed his first Champions League success in 1999. "It's almost ten years ago," Ferguson recalls. "I think the team of today is the team of today," he was quoted as saying by Uefa.com. "They don't need to be reminded of the past – they've seen it many times on video so I don't think it's lost on anyone in our team."
Rijkaard has full respect for Ferguson And Ferguson now has weapons at least as lethal as he had back in 99. Cristiano Ronaldo, the Premiership most prolific player, and Wayne Rooney are ready to conquer the Barca defense, which is already depleted by the absence of captain Carles Puyol. Thierry Henry, who knows a lot about United from his long spell with Arsenal, is doubtful as he missed the last two training sessions with high temperature. Though, Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard is unfazed and says that a win over united is an "absolute must" for his side. "It is true that if you aspire to win at the top level then you absolutely must win your home games," he said. The Dutch manager paid credit for Ferguson and described him as the best in the world. "I don't like talking about the 'very best in the world' but Sir Alex is, without question, worthy of that status. For me, he represents football," Rijkaard said.
