Speaking at a pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Enrique described Liverpool’s attacking trio as “three fighter jets” and emphasized the need for his team to avoid losing possession.
“Liverpool has one of the best counter-attacks in Europe, so we must keep the ball and be cautious during transitions,” he said. “It’s not easy to stop these fighter jets.”
Liverpool’s attack, led by Mohamed Salah, has been in sensational form this season. Salah has scored 30 goals in 39 games, with Luis Díaz and Cody Gakpo providing strong support. Enrique praised Liverpool’s consistency and versatility, calling them the best-performing team in the group stage.
“Arne Slot has done a fantastic job. He’s built a near-perfect team that knows how to defend, press, and attack—whether by holding possession or accelerating quickly,” Enrique said.
In a rare admission, the PSG coach acknowledged that Liverpool might have a slight edge. “They can create danger even without the ball, which is something we rely less on. To impose our style, we usually need to dominate possession,” he added.
Despite his concerns, Enrique can take confidence from PSG’s impressive form. The French champions are on a 22-game unbeaten run since a 1-0 loss to Bayern Munich in November and have won their last 10 matches, scoring 40 goals in the process.
The departure of Kylian Mbappé to Real Madrid has forced PSG to reshape their attack, but the team has adapted brilliantly. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Bradley Barcola have flourished alongside Ousmane Dembélé, who has netted a career-best 26 goals in 33 games. Young talents like Désiré Doué and Gonçalo Ramos add depth and threat from the bench.
Enrique also highlighted the advantage of playing at home. “The atmosphere at Parc des Princes is extraordinary, and it’s difficult for opponents to handle the pressure. I hope we can use that to our benefit,” he said.
However, Liverpool’s Anfield remains a daunting venue for the second leg, as Barcelona learned in 2019 when they squandered a 3-0 first-leg lead to lose 4-0 in the semifinals.
Both teams are dominating their domestic leagues. PSG is on track for a record-extending 13th French title, while Liverpool is closing in on a 20th Premier League crown. A seventh Champions League title would move Liverpool level with AC Milan in second place on the all-time list.
PSG, meanwhile, is still chasing its first Champions League trophy after losing the 2020 final to Bayern Munich in the pandemic-shortened campaign.