PSG manager, Luis Enrique has expressed his surprise regarding Liverpool boss, Arne Slot’s choice to use a five-man defense in the Reds 2-0 loss to the Ligue 1 giants in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals clash on Wednesday.
PSG showcased a commanding performance in Paris, with Desire Doue and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia each netting a goal in their respective halves for the reigning Champions League champions.
For the match in the French capital, Slot decided on a back three consisting of Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk, and Joe Gomez, while Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez functioned as wing-backs.
Nevertheless, Liverpool found it challenging to pose a threat to PSG, failing to record a single shot on target and managing only 26 percent possession.
Following PSG’s triumph, Luis Enrique was inquired about his reaction to Slot’s decision to initiate the match with a defensive setup.
“It’s a surprise because it’s the first time Arne Slot has played with three at the back this year,” Luis Enrique remarked to Canal Plus.
“It indicated that they are evolving and experimenting with new strategies, which is quite normal. We are accustomed to opponents adjusting to our style, so there are no concerns. We will aim to secure victory in the second match.”
In a different discussion with TNT Sports, Luis Enrique further stated, “I recognize that Arne Slot is an excellent coach; this is the first instance they have employed five at the back.
“However, we are familiar with other teams altering their formations to compete against us; it is a common occurrence.
“I believe they performed exceptionally well; they are a physically robust team with high-quality individual players, and it was a delightful match.
“It is always enjoyable to compete against Arne Slot and his teams, as they strive to play an attacking style of football, which was a pleasure to observe.”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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