Javier Mascherano expects Manchester City to go on the front foot tonight against Barcelona.
City trail 2-0 from the first leg and Mascherano has told a pre-match Press conference that Barca need to be aware of City’s potent forward line – Sergio Aguero especially.
“I think we'll see City really attack. They play that way normally and with the result against them more so,” Mascherano said.
“Aguero is one of the five best forwards in the world, a fantastic player, and with space he can ruin your night,” the Argentine added regarding his compatriot.
“We'll try to give him as little space as possible and make sure he is not comfortable, that he doesn't feel like he's in his natural habit.
“We will try to do the same [as in the first leg]: keep possession, not let them counterattack, don't give them space.
“The way to do that is to have the ball for the majority of the game. We're the ones who have the lead.”
Both sides go into the game on the back of defeats – Barca in the League to Real Valladolid and City in the FA Cup to Wigan Athletic.
Mascherano insisted the players were fully aware they need to raise their game for the visit of City.
“We're conscious that we cannot play like we did against Valladolid,” Mascherano continued.
“We have to get back to our best version. [Wednesday] is a great night for that.”
