Liverpool vs PSG: Enrique Unfazed by Favorites Label

Enrique say 'there are no favorites' in PSG vs Liverpool clash

PSG manager Luis Enrique dismisses favorites tag ahead of Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool.

PSG coach Luis Enrique plays down favorites tag, citing Liverpool's strength...

PSG boss Luis Enrique is downplaying the favorites tag ahead of their Champions League quarter-final clash with Liverpool, saying it's “difficult to talk about favorites” in such high-stakes matches. He emphasized that Liverpool, despite struggling domestically, is a formidable opponent with a rich European history.

Enrique's comments come as Liverpool faces pressure after a 4-0 thrashing by Manchester City in the FA Cup, their 15th defeat this season. Meanwhile, PSG leads Ligue 1 and aims to defend their Champions League title. 

PSG Top of Ligue 1

PSG's enjoying a strong season, topping Ligue 1 and looking strong in the Champions League. They're defending champions, and their form has been impressive.

“It's difficult to talk about Liverpool,” Luis Enrique told reporters on Tuesday. “Liverpool manager Arne Slot speaks very well about them.

“My view is ‌that it's both the same team and ⁠a different team. Everyone ‌is trying to work out who the favourites are, but in this sort of match, that means nothing. It will be tough for both teams.”

“Showing that we're still in the running every year and playing against Liverpool is always a positive thing.

“We want to reach ⁠the semi-finals; we know how difficult it will be, but we're very motivated.”

This tie is a repeat of last season's round-of-16 clash, when PSG edged Liverpool out on penalties. 

“Last year, everyone said it was ‌Liverpool, and PSG went through,” Spaniard Luis Enrique said.

Hugo Ekitike is set for a reunion with his former club PSG, facing them for the first time since leaving last year. The 23-year-old striker had a tough time getting minutes at PSG with stars like Messi and Mbappe.

Ekitike's had a breakout season at Liverpool, scoring 17 goals and assisting six in 43 appearances. He's eager to prove himself against his old club.

🎙️ Luis Enrique: “It doesn't matter who the favorite is. For me, there isn't one.”#PSGLIV I #UCL pic.twitter.com/qYvTCQGnDM

— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) April 7, 2026

Luis Enrique praised Hugo Ekitike's growth, saying, “After leaving here, he did very well in Germany and at Liverpool. He's now an international player and has made great progress. He was very young when he was here; he's improved a lot.”

👊 Last session before Liverpool. #PSGLIV I #UCL pic.twitter.com/02msnH2fgu

— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) April 7, 2026

Meanwhile, PSG's Spanish midfielder Fabian Ruiz is still dealing with an injury and didn't train with the squad on Monday. However, French winger Bradley Barcola has joined the team for training after recovering from an ankle problem.