Arjun Menon
Liverpool travel to Paris for a high-stakes UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg against PSG on April 8, 2026. With injuries mounting and form under scrutiny, Arne Slot faces a crucial selection challenge ahead of the game at Parc des Princes — but there are also reasons for cautious optimism heading into the tie.
Recent predictions suggest Liverpool will adopt a compact and flexible system, likely operating in a 4-2-2-2 shape that can shift to a 4-2-3-1 depending on the phase of play.
Liverpool Predicted Starting XI (4-2-2-2)
Mamardashvili; Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Ekitike.
This setup prioritises midfield intensity and transitional attacking play, with multiple players capable of rotating positions in the final third.
Tactical Breakdown: Liverpool’s Approach
Unlike PSG’s possession-heavy system, Liverpool are expected to rely on structured pressing and quick transitions. The double pivot of Mac Allister and Gravenberch will be key, tasked with disrupting PSG’s rhythm and launching counterattacks.
Further forward, the system is fluid and attack-minded: Salah provides direct goal threat and vast experience on big European nights; Szoboszlai and Wirtz operate between the lines, linking midfield to attack; Ekitike, facing his former club, adds mobility and unpredictability leading the line. The shape often resembles a front four in attack — designed to exploit the space behind PSG’s advancing full-backs, Hakimi and Mendes.
Selection Decisions to Watch
Arne Slot still faces some finely balanced choices: Frimpong is expected to reclaim his right-back spot from Joe Gomez after returning to full training. Cody Gakpo could replace Ekitike or shift into a wider role if Slot opts for more width. Alexander Isak may feature from the bench if Slot is satisfied with his match fitness.
Liverpool Injury Report
Confirmed Absences
Alisson Becker (Goalkeeper) — Confirmed out for both legs. Slot has stated the Brazilian will not feature in either PSG game and is not expected back until the end of the season. Giorgi Mamardashvili continues in goal.
Conor Bradley (Right-back) — Out for the season with a serious knee injury. His absence has forced Slot into makeshift solutions at right-back throughout the campaign.
Giovanni Leoni (Centre-back) — Tore his ACL on his Liverpool debut against Southampton in September. Slot confirmed he faces approximately a year out and will not return until 2026-27.
Wataru Endo (Midfielder) — Suffered a significant ankle and foot injury against Sunderland in February and is out for the remainder of the season.
Doubtful / Managing Fitness
Alexander Isak (Forward) — Missed three months after fracturing his fibula against Tottenham in December. Has returned to full training and Slot has confirmed he will be available for the PSG ties, though a bench role is the most likely outcome given his lack of match sharpness.
Returning Boost
Mohamed Salah returned from a minor injury to start the FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester City and is confirmed to start in Paris. Despite a difficult afternoon at the Etihad — where he missed a penalty — his presence on the right wing remains a crucial attacking asset. Frimpong has also shaken off the knock that prompted his substitution during Netherlands duty and is back in full training.
Key Battle: Liverpool Press vs PSG Possession
This matchup will likely be decided in midfield. PSG will look to control through Vitinha and João Neves, while Liverpool’s success depends on how effectively Mac Allister and Gravenberch disrupt that rhythm. If Liverpool’s press clicks, they can create high-value chances on the counter. If not, PSG’s wide overloads through Kvaratskhelia and Dembélé could prove overwhelming.
Final Thoughts
Liverpool arrive in Paris depleted but not without danger. The absences of Alisson, Bradley, Leoni, and Endo have forced Slot to adapt all season, and the team has found ways to cope. The return of Salah and the potential involvement of Isak offer renewed attacking hope, while the defensive core of Van Dijk and Konaté remains formidable on its day.
The plan is clear: stay compact, press aggressively, and strike in transition. Against a dominant PSG side on home soil, execution will need to be near perfect — but Liverpool have done it here before.