Paris Saint-Germain’s coach Luis Enrique has downplayed the notion that his team are the frontrunners as they prepare for the Champions League quarter-final first leg against a struggling Liverpool on Wednesday.
The reigning English champions, currently sitting fifth in the Premier League, have encountered 15 defeats across all competitions this season, marking their highest losses in a single campaign since they faced 18 in the 2014/15 season.
In contrast, PSG are atop Ligue 1 and are well-positioned to defend their Champions League title.
“It’s tricky to discuss Liverpool,” Enrique remarked to reporters on Tuesday. “Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot articulates very well about them.”
“In my opinion, it’s the same team yet a different one. Everyone is speculating about who the favourites are, but in matches like this, that holds little significance. It’s going to be a challenge for both sides.”
“Being in contention every year and facing Liverpool is always a positive for us.
“Our aim is to progress to the semi-finals; we understand the difficulties we face, but we are incredibly motivated.”
This clash is a rematch of last year’s round-of-16 encounter, where PSG eliminated Liverpool via penalties.
“Last year, everyone claimed it was Liverpool’s moment, yet PSG advanced,” Enrique noted.
This fixture will also see Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike face off against his former team.
The 23-year-old French international has had a stellar debut season in England, netting 17 goals and providing six assists in 43 appearances.
Ekitike had a brief stint at PSG from 2023 to 2024 but found it challenging to secure playing time amidst a squad that featured Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappé.
“Since leaving here, he has excelled in Germany and at Liverpool,” added Enrique. “He’s now an international player who has demonstrated significant growth. He was very young during his time here and has developed immensely.”
Spanish midfielder Fabian Ruiz did not participate in Monday’s training session due to an injury, whilst French winger Bradley Barcola was able to train after resolving an ankle issue.
Stay tuned for updates on the first leg between PSG and Liverpool.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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