Thierry Henry backing Barcelona to beat Manchester City

Thierry Henry believes that his former side Barcelona will advance from their last-16 Champions League clash with Manchester City.

However, the New York Red Bulls forward has admitted that City "are better than ever" following significant investment in their squad.

"It will be difficult [for Barca]. Manchester are better than ever this year," he told El Mundo Deportivo. "They have made a very strong investment [in their squad] and are showing their full potential in the Premier League.

"But I also think that having a rival like this will work well for Barcelona because City like to play without closing things up at the back.

"So Barcelona should be able to attack as they please. I'll watch the game on TV and I'll be cheering on Barca like a fan."

Ahead of the match, Henry has also paid tribute to Lionel Messi.