The PSG star plays down talk of the Reds’ demise ahead of the Champions League game
The midfielder of Paris Saint-Germain, Vitinha, rejected the proposals of the title holders who will face Liverpool tomorrow night in the first leg of the quarter final of the Champions League.
Liverpool have had a disappointing season but took on new depth at the weekend with a poor display at Manchester City in the FA Cup. Although the Merseysiders started well, they lost 4-0 with captain Virgil van Dijk admitting that they “gave up” after the break.
That result piled more pressure on manager Arne Slot, who looks set to leave the club at the end of the season, with some bookies putting his side at 4/1 to win at the Parc des Princes.
Vitinha, however, was not willing to talk about PSG’s chances and insisted they remain on the lookout for last season’s Premier League champions.
“It doesn’t mean anything [being labelled favourites],” said the Portuguese player.” We know football, there are no favorites in this type of game. Liverpool is Liverpool. They are always a great team. On Champions League night, the team can be different. There will be two big games. Tomorrow, we will be 100% and alert. It’s still a very difficult game.”
It will be different, said Vitinha when asked about last year’s draw
The teams met in the same competition last season with two thrilling games both won by away teams before PSG went to penalties.
The game in the French capital was one-sided with Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, who will be out tomorrow through injury, producing a fine performance before Harvey Elliott scored the only goal three minutes from time.
“It was two exceptional games. It was amazing,” Vitinha added. “The first game left me frustrated. [again tomorrow].
“Some think it will be easy, there are many things that happen in football in a week, a year has passed, we will be ready to play this game, but it will be different.
Liverpool were favorites last year, and PSG won – Luis Enrique
The manager of PSG, Luis Enrique, followed Vitinha’s words, adding: “In my opinion it is not important to know who puts him as a favorite. Because in this type of game it is impossible to have a favorite. I don’t think we are favorites. Last year, by the way, everyone said that Liverpool was the favorite and, in the end, PSG won.”
The former Spain and Barcelona boss would like his team to repeat last season’s fixture.
He said: “It was a very high level game and it is surprising that we lost in this game, I would have signed to have this level tomorrow but on the other hand not with the same result, we are looking to win all the games, use the opportunity to play at the Parc, its atmosphere and the support of the fans.”
The hosts will be without striker Bradley Barcola, who failed to prove he is fit, and midfielder Fabian Ruiz.
