With Liverpool set to face Paris Saint-Germain in a highly anticipated Champions League first-leg clash, former Arsenal star and football pundit Paul Merson has shared his insights on what Jürgen Klopp’s side must avoid if they hope to gain the upper hand. Speaking ahead of the encounter, Merson stressed that Liverpool cannot afford to get into an “open, end-to-end shootout” with a team as dangerous as PSG.
“PSG thrive in chaos,” Merson explained. “They’ve got players like Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and of course, Randal Kolo Muani, who are absolutely lethal on the break. If Liverpool go gung-ho and leave gaps in behind, they could get punished badly. This is not the game to play heavy metal football from the first whistle.”
Merson highlighted that while Liverpool’s high press has been effective domestically, PSG’s ability to play out from the back and exploit space makes them one of the few teams who can turn that strategy against you. “If Liverpool push too high without cover, it’s curtains. You give Mbappé half a pitch to run into, and you’re asking for trouble.”
The Sky Sports pundit also pointed out that discipline will be key, particularly in midfield. “Alexis Mac Allister and Curtis Jones, or whoever Klopp plays in that middle three, have got to be switched on. If they get dragged out of position, PSG will cut right through them. Liverpool have to manage the tempo and pick their moments.”
Another factor Merson warned about is over-committing in attack. “Liverpool’s full-backs love to get forward, but PSG are built to exploit that. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson have to find the balance between supporting the attack and not leaving the back door open. One bad turnover and PSG are away.”
Ultimately, Merson believes Liverpool must stay compact, disciplined, and avoid making the first leg a frantic affair. “You don’t win two-legged ties in the first game, but you can definitely lose them. Liverpool just need to keep themselves in it. If they can bring PSG back to Anfield with the tie still alive, you’d back them to finish the job.”
With such high stakes and world-class talent on both sides, the first leg promises to be a fascinating tactical battle.
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