Liverpool had shown interest in Khvicha Kvaratskhelia before his £59 million transfer to PSG in January, but now they may face him on Wednesday night in the Champions League last 16. However, the winger, who has recorded two goals and four assists in 10 games for PSG, is not expected to feature in Luis Enrique’s starting lineup. Instead, rising star Désiré Doué is reportedly the preferred choice in attack as the French giants prepare to host Liverpool.
According to reports from L’Équipe, Kvaratskhelia is still adapting to Enrique’s system and does not yet provide the same level of intensity off the ball as some of his teammates. In contrast, 19-year-old Doué has emerged as a key figure for PSG, making 35 appearances this season, starting 20 of those matches. His versatility has allowed him to thrive in multiple attacking roles, including both wings and the No. 10 position, contributing seven goals and 10 assists.
PSG’s expected lineup features Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, with Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho, and Nuno Mendes forming the back four. The midfield trio is likely to include Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz, and Joao Neves, while the attack will see Doué on the left, Bradley Barcola on the right, and Ousmane Dembélé leading the line. There remains a possibility of a tactical surprise, as Enrique may look to disrupt Liverpool’s game plan, but current indications suggest he will stick with a familiar setup.
PSG head into the first leg with no major injury concerns, and all players are available for selection, including Warren Zaïre-Emery, who has recently returned from injury. This gives Enrique a full squad to choose from as his team aims to gain an advantage ahead of the second leg.
Liverpool, on the other hand, have a few notable absentees. Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley are both sidelined with hamstring injuries, while Tyler Morton remains out with a shoulder issue. Additionally, four key players— Ibrahima Konaté, Alexis Mac Allister, Andy Robertson, and Harvey Elliott—are just one booking away from suspension, meaning any yellow card in this fixture would rule them out of the return leg at Anfield.
With both teams set to field strong lineups, the clash promises to be an intriguing battle. Liverpool will look to capitalize on their attacking firepower and high-intensity pressing, while PSG will rely on their technical quality and pace in transition.
With the tie finely poised, both sides will be eager to gain the upper hand before the decisive second leg at Anfield.
