Isak Starts as Liverpool Face PSG in Crucial Rematch
Arne Slot has shaken up his attack for Liverpool’s pivotal Champions League return leg against Paris St-Germain, handing Alexander Isak his first start since December. He’ll partner Hugo Ekitike upfront in a bold two-striker setup, while Mohamed Salah—usually untouchable—finds himself on the bench once again.
This isn’t just rotation—it’s a clear tactical shift from Slot, who’s trying to reverse last week’s 2-0 defeat in Paris. With both Isak and Ekitike starting, Liverpool are clearly prioritizing vertical threat over width, especially with Florian Wirtz operating behind them instead of a traditional winger.
A Striking Duo Reborn
Isak’s return is more than symbolic. Before his injury layoff, he’d been one of Liverpool’s most reliable finishers in tight European games. His pace and movement could stretch PSG’s back line, which relies heavily on Marquinhos and Pacho staying compact. Pairing him with Ekitike—a player comfortable dropping deep or pressing high—gives Liverpool flexibility without needing Salah’s cutting-in runs from the right.
Meanwhile, PSG stick with what worked. Luis Enrique hasn’t changed a single starter from their win at the Parc des Princes. That means Kvaratskhelia and Dembele will again look to exploit Liverpool’s full-backs, while Zaire-Emery and Vitinha control tempo from midfield. Confidence is high in the French camp, and why wouldn’t it be?
What This Lineup Tells Us
Slot’s choices reveal three key things:
- He’s all-in on overturning the deficit – no half-measures with a rotated side; this is a full-strength attacking gamble.
- Salah’s role is evolving – benched in back-to-back UCL knockout games suggests he may now be a super-sub rather than automatic starter.
- Defensive stability comes first – Konate and Van Dijk stay central, with Kerkez and Frimpong offering cover but not overlapping aggressively.
Liverpool’s midfield trio of Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, and Mac Allister lacks natural defensive cover, so expect Wirtz to track back more than usual. If PSG dominate possession early, that could become a vulnerability.
Key Takeaways
- Alexander Isak makes his first start since December, leading Liverpool’s line alongside Hugo Ekitike.
- Mohamed Salah is benched for the second consecutive Champions League match under Arne Slot.
- PSG name an identical XI to their winning team from the first leg in Paris.
- Liverpool’s formation appears to be a 4-3-1-2, emphasizing central overloads and quick transitions.
- The Anfield crowd will be crucial—PSG have historically struggled in hostile European atmospheres.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. Lose, and Liverpool crash out of Europe. Win by two goals or more, and they force extra time. Anything less, and it’s penalties. With Isak fit and firing, there’s genuine hope—but PSG’s confidence and tactical discipline make them dangerous opponents even on English soil.
One wild card? Salah coming off the bench in the 60th minute with the game still in the balance. If Liverpool need a spark, he remains the ultimate option—even if Slot no longer sees him as the foundation of his system.
— Editorial Team
