Valverde: "We've delivered in the most important moments this season"

Ernesto Valverde stood in front of the media this afternoon and analysed the upcoming Champions League quarter final between his Barça side and Manchester United.

The coach didn't want to hear about being the favourites and said everything would still be to play for in the second leg at the Camp Nou.

Here are the most interesting soundbites from Valverde: 

United's strength at set pieces

"United are capable of doing a lot from set pieces, but they are also a stronger side for how they went through in the previous round. Their morale will be in the clouds and they'll be desperate to go through. We need to be aware of the pressure their players will insert on us."

Dembélé's situation

"We'll see how he feels after training and make a decision. It's different to the game against Lyon as there's still another leg to play for. We need to make sure we don't risk him so he doesn't pick up another injury."

On maybe going with his trusted 4-4-2 formation

"You'll see tomorrow. I don't know the opposition's intentions and I won't give them an advantage." 

Which is more important: grabbing an away goal or keeping a clean sheet?

"You need to combine the two and I suppose they'll do the same. In these matches you can't think about only attacking or defending. You need to combine both."

United's Premier League form

"They have the tools to hurt us and we need to avoid that happening. We can't hand them the initiative."

United have had four extra days rest ahead of the match

"Beating Atletico compensates for the extra physical demands on us. The desire you have to go through, as well other things, are more important than an extra days rest or two. An example of that was what United did in Paris."

The current status of United

"The biggest teams in Europe always have an aura about them. Every supporter knows the level you must give. In the last few years they haven't reached many finals but this year they've shown their best form in different times."

Solskjaer's impact

"We expect them to be a tough opponent. At home when they press high up the pitch, things can happen. They might be prepared for us."

Are Barça favourites to go through?

"The expectation is always there but winning tomorrow doesn't mean anything. Some feel City are favourites, others United. If they think we are, perfect, but that doesn't help you win."

Remembering Roma

"It give me a lot of sleepness nights but now I see it as something to motivate us."

Home advantage

"In the last 16, four sides who played at home in the second leg went through and four didn't. Playing the second leg at home doesn't make a big difference."

Messi

"We expect a lot of him. He always stands out."

Greater conviction in the most important matches

"We're confident, that's true. This year we've responded in the biggest moments, both in LaLiga and in the Champions League. We hope to do that again tomorrow."