Arne Slot reveals: The Liverpool manager cautions about facing a ‘top’ Paris Saint-Germain before their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 match.

Liverpool Set to Face “Peak” PSG in Champions League Clash

Arne Slot has issued a stark warning to Liverpool ahead of their UEFA Champions League showdown with Paris Saint-Germain, labelling the French giants as “one of the strongest teams in Europe.” The two sides are set to meet at the iconic Parc des Princes on Wednesday night, with the match being broadcast live on TNT Sports and discovery+.

Both Liverpool and PSG are currently riding high in their respective domestic leagues, sitting atop the tables with significant points advantages that seem almost insurmountable. Liverpool boasts a 13-point lead over Arsenal in the Premier League, although Mikel Arteta’s side does have a game in hand. Meanwhile, PSG enjoys a similar cushion over Marseille in Ligue 1.

Slot, who has taken the reins at Liverpool following Jurgen Klopp’s tenure, acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by PSG, particularly given their current form. The likes of Ousmane Dembele are hitting their stride, having settled in well after his move from Barcelona. Slot noted that both teams are largely injury-free, which adds to the anticipation surrounding this encounter.

“This team, if I heard Luis Enrique correctly, doesn’t have injuries at all – they’re probably at their peak this season. A very interesting game for those who love football,” Slot remarked during an interview with TNT Sports.

While Slot is aware of the threats posed by PSG, he also highlighted the successes his own team has achieved both domestically and in Europe, suggesting that Liverpool’s experience could be crucial. “We are facing Paris Saint-Germain, which is one of the strongest teams in Europe, so that’s going to be a challenge as well,” he stated.

He added, “I don’t think I need to calm the players down. They know how difficult the task is in front of them, because they know how challenging it has been to win our Champions League games, and how tough it’s been to secure victories in the Premier League.”

Liverpool’s defence will have their hands full not only with Dembele but also with the likes of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Bradley Barcola, who can be equally dangerous. However, the Reds will be bolstered by the return to form of Virgil van Dijk, who has been a rock at the back this season. Trent Alexander-Arnold continues to impress with his attacking contributions, further fuelling speculation about a potential move to Real Madrid at the end of the season.

Both Van Dijk and Alexander-Arnold, along with talisman Mohamed Salah, are out of contract this summer, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the match.

A Tactical Battle Awaits

Luis Enrique, the former Barcelona and Spain manager, has been at the helm in Paris since 2023, and Slot sees some tactical similarities between the two sides. “I see a lot of similarities; both teams want to have as much possession as they can,” he observed. “We both press high. We do it in different fashions, but the idea behind it is the same. It’s an interesting game to look forward to.”

As both teams prepare for crucial cup fixtures—PSG facing Dunkerque in the French Cup semi-final and Liverpool gearing up for a League Cup final against Newcastle—the stakes are high. Both clubs are on course for a potential treble, a remarkable feat for Slot, who has been praised for his management style and calm demeanor on the sidelines.

However, a recent red card against Everton may hint at growing tensions as the season reaches its climax. Slot has already led Liverpool to notable victories in Europe, including a memorable win against Real Madrid, but he believes this upcoming tie could be even more demanding.

“The difference is there are now two games instead of one—both will play at home, and we know how important playing at Anfield can be,” he explained. “This is different because we play two games, and although we all know how good of a team Real Madrid are, they had some injuries as well.”

As the clock ticks down to kick-off, all eyes will be on whether Liverpool can secure an advantage ahead of the return leg at Anfield, or if they will need to rely on their famous home support to see them through.

How to Watch PSG vs Liverpool

Fans can catch the action live on TNT Sports, which is available across all major TV platforms. The match kicks off at 20:00 UK time on TNT Sports 1, with live coverage starting at 19:00. Subscriptions to TNT Sports can be obtained through discovery+, BT, EE, Sky, and Virgin Media.

Wednesday promises to be a thrilling night of football as Liverpool and PSG clash in what could be a defining moment in their respective seasons.