Barcelona defender Gerard Pique has revealed that being back in Manchester "brings back memories" from his time with Manchester United.

The Spanish international is currently with the Barca squad in Manchester ahead of Tuesday's Champions League last-16 first leg against Manchester City at the Etihad.

Pique spent four years with City's rivals United from 2004 to 2008, but returned to Camp Nou after failing to break into the first team.

"[Being back in Manchester] brings back memories as I lived here for three years. The people are great, enjoy football with exemplary passion," Pique told reporters.

"I was at a club, who historically are one of the top three in the world, so it's always good to beat Manchester United's rivals."

Barca beat City in the last-16 stage of the competition last season.