Champions League final defeat to Barcelona hit us hard – Manchester United’s Park Ji-Sung

Park Ji-Sung admits that Manchester United’s Champions League final defeat to Barcelona hit his side hard.

The match was United’s third Champions League final in four seasons and the second in that time against Barcelona, with both games ending in defeat for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side.

United went into the second half of the game level with the Spanish champions at 1-1, but a dazzling display from the Catalans ensured Pep Guardiola’s men ended the night victorious.

Park recalls how badly the players took the loss at Wembley in May and insists the players must up their game for the new season.

“The Barcelona game was very disappointing,” he told reporters.

“Every player had the same feeling and it left us with mixed thoughts because we also won the title, which allowed us to make history.

“However, we have to do better because what happened against Barcelona hit us hard. It was such a disappointing defeat.

“We have to think of the future. We have to be better and must work hard to try and ensure that doesn’t happen again.”

The South Korean is aware his importance to the United set-up and recently quit the international stage to focus on club matters, and he admitted he wants more rest after travelling with the squad on their pre-season tour of the USA.

“The fitness levels do get affected when you travel so much and play extra games,” he said.

“I hope to get more rest, not suffer any injuries and enjoy the season.”