Champions League 2025-2026: PSG-Liverpool, the likely lineups

The lights at the Parc des Princes will be turned on for one of the most anticipated challenges of the Champions League quarterfinals. At 9 p.m., Paris Saint-Germain hosts Liverpool in a match that represents last year’s rematch.

A year after the crazy night at Anfield, where the Parisians snatched the pass thanks to the saves of an unsurpassed Donnarumma, history is repeating itself. But today the context is different: if the previous year was a round of 16, this time the stakes are higher. At stake is a semifinal that for PSG would represent the confirmation of a mature project under Luis Enrique’s leadership, while for Arne Slot’s Reds it represents a mission of redemption. The challenge at the Parc des Princes may show which of the two teams will have the strength to make the most of their chances, ahead of the return fixture next week at Anfield.

Luis Enrique deploys Russian Safonov, now a staple of the team, between the posts, protected by the Marquinhos-Pacho pair with Hakimi and Nuno Mendes on the flanks. In the midfield, the talent of João Neves joins the substance of Vitinha and Zaire-Emery. But the real novelty is in the trident: next to Kvaratskhelia and Dembélé, space for young Désiré Doué, with Barcola injured.

Arne Slot fields a very offensive team. Mamardashvili will defend the goal, shielded by giants Konaté and Van Dijk, with full-backs Frimpong and Kerkez. The midfield is entrusted to the Gravenberch-Mac Allister duo, while the quality trio of Salah, Szoboszlai and Wirtz will act in the three-quarter. Up front, eyes will be on big former Hugo Ekitiké, ready to strike back at his old team.

The likely lineups

PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN (4-3-3): Safonov; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Nuno Mendes; Zaire-Emery, Vitinha, Neves; Kvaratskhelia, Dembele, Doue. All. Luis Enrique.

LIVERPOOL (4-2-3-1): Mamardashvili; Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Ekitike. All. Slot.