Rakitic explains what Barca need to do against Liverpool

The midfielder has warned of the threat the Reds possess

Ivan Rakitic has been talking about what Barcelona need to do against Liverpool ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League semi-final against the Reds.

The midfielder is well aware of the threat posed the attackers such as Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane and says they are tough to defend against.

“I have a lot of respect for Liverpool as Klopp’s teams have always been very organised, and he has managed to improve his players,” he said.

”It will be quite difficult to defend them because they are very good. We need to stop them running at our defence. We are going there to score but we mustn’t lose our heads

”I hope we can stop them as soon as possible, control the tempo of the game and keep them away from our goal.

”We have to understand that they are a good team who know what football they [need to] play. We have to prepare our game, play a great match and understand what we have to do.”

Rakitic is expected to start the game for Barcelona along with Sergio Busquets and Arthur in midfield. The Croatian’s only goal in the competition this season came against English opposition back in October when he scored a cracker against Tottenham.

Source: barcablaugranes.com