Manchester United face a tricky opening Champions League game at Besiktas – can last year’s finalists get off to a winning start? Get all the best odds here.

Barcelona midfielder Xavi has praised the impact made by new striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic since his arrival at Camp Nou in the summer.

The Sweden international has scored twice since joining Barca from Inter, but it is his impact in the dressing room that has most impressed his new team-mates.

“He is beginning an adventure that will last for five years,” said Xavi.”He has surprised me because he jokes a lot when I thought he would be more serious.

”Everyone said he was awkward but that is not the case. He is very likeable, he has adapted very well.”

Ibrahimovic makes a swift return to former club Inter this week as the two European clubs meet in the Champions League. It will also see Inter coach and former Barca backroom staff member Jose Mourinho return to his old employers and Xavi sees many similarities between the Portuguese and current Barca coach Pep Guardiola.

He added: ”I had three years with him (Mourinho) when he was an assistant to (Louis) Van Gaal and I learnt a lot. He is like Guardiola in that they are both obsessed by work.

”Perhaps Mourinho is more focused on defence while Pep is more romantic and wants to play well besides winning.”

Manchester United face a tricky opening Champions League game at Besiktas – can last year’s finalists get off to a winning start? Get all the best odds here.

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