With no recent reports of an injury, head coach Arne Slot’s decision appears to be purely tactical rather than health-related. Adding weight to that theory is the fact that Cody Gakpo has also been omitted from the lineup, joining Salah among the substitutes for this high-stakes clash. Follow our liveblog of PSG vs Liverpool for minute-by-minute updates!

The double-benching comes as a massive surprise to the Liverpool faithful, as both Salah and Gakpo have been pillars of Slot’s system throughout the campaign. Choosing to rotate his most lethal attacking threats against a juggernaut like PSG has left fans and pundits alike searching for answers as kickoff approaches.

Who replaces Salah and Gakpo?

In a bold tactical shift for Liverpool’s starting XI, Slot has opted for Jeremy Frimpong and Florian Wirtz to fill the vacancies left by Salah and Gakpo. By slotting Frimpong and Wirtz into the lineup, Slot appears to be prioritizing defensive stability and transition play, wary of the explosive offensive firepower PSG bring to the pitch.

With both lineups now official, the tactical chess match between Slot and Luis Enrique has become the focal point for fans at Anfield. Facing the reigning Champions League titleholders provides a massive litmus test for the Reds, who are desperate to find their footing and bounce back from a demoralizing 4-0 thrashing at the hands of Manchester City.

Confirmed lineups: PSG vs. Liverpool

Both managers have locked in their selections, with Liverpool notably still missing the presence of Alisson Becker in goal. Here is how both European heavyweights will take the field for tonight’s marquee Champions League fixture:

• PSG XI: Safonov; Hakimi, Marquinhos (C), Pacho, N. Mendes; Vitinha, Joao Neves, Zaïre-Emery; Doue, Dembele, Kvaratskhelia.
• Liverpool XI: Mamardashvili; Gomez, Van Dijk, Konate, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Frimpong, Szoboszlai, Ekitike; Wirtz.

At this stage of the competition, even a single result can redefine momentum before the return leg, making every moment between Arne Slot‘s team and Luis Enrique‘s team crucial for qualification.

The game will be played at the Parc des Princes in Paris and will kick off at 3:00 PM ET on Wednesday, April 8. Follow PSG vs Liverpool with us for live updates!

What happens if Liverpool beat PSG today?

A win for Liverpool gives them an early advantage in the two-legged quarter-final, but it does not decide the tie. The result only sets the aggregate score going into the second leg against Paris Saint-Germain, with everything still open. Alisson isn’t playing in today’s first leg against PSG, posing a challenge for the Reds.

In the modern UEFA Champions League format, the winner is determined strictly by aggregate goals over both legs, not away goals (the rule was abolished in UEFA competitions). Key implications of a Liverpool win:

• They carry a lead (even a small one) into the second leg
• PSG must chase the tie in the return match, potentially changing their tactical approach
• If Liverpool extend or defend that advantage in the second leg, they advance to the semi-finals
• If aggregate scores end level after both legs, the match goes to extra time and potentially penalties

What happens if Liverpool and PSG tie today?

A draw in the first leg means the tie remains perfectly balanced heading into the second leg. With no away-goals rule in effect anymore, a tie does not favor either side on scoring location—everything resets to a “mini-final” in the return match.

What this means in practice: Both teams enter the second leg level on aggregate, the second leg becomes decisive (whoever wins advances) and any identical aggregate score after 180 minutes across both legs leads to extra time and penalties if needed.

What happens if Liverpool lose to PSG today?

A defeat puts Liverpool immediately on the back foot in the quarter-final, handing PSG an early aggregate advantage and shifting pressure toward the second leg. Even so, the tie remains alive.

Liverpool would be forced to overturn the deficit in Paris, needing a stronger performance in the return match to stay in the competition. PSG, meanwhile, would likely approach the second leg with more control.

The injury setback comes after the Brazilian goalkeeper suffered physical issues in recent weeks, with reports indicating the problem originated around Liverpool’s Champions League fixtures in March.

Manager Arne Slot confirmed that he will not be available for the PSG series and is expected to remain out until the later stages of the season, forcing Liverpool to rely on backup options in goal.

How and when did Alisson Becker get injured?

Alisson Becker suffered a hamstring injury in March 2026, shortly after Liverpool’s Champions League clash against Galatasaray, with the issue worsening following his brief return to action.

Reports indicate the goalkeeper initially dealt with discomfort earlier in the season, returned for a couple of matches, and then experienced another setback that forced him out again.

He had already missed matches earlier in the campaign with similar concerns, and this latest setback came at a critical point in the season, just before the Champions League quarter-finals, where a win, tie or loss could affect Liverpool for the rematch at Anfield.

How long is Alisson Becker’s recovery timeline?

Alisson is expected to be sidelined for several weeks, with an estimated return window placing him out until late April or early May 2026. This timeline means he will miss both legs of the Champions League quarter-final against PSG.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot confirmed that the Brazilian would not be available for the PSG tie and is “out for a bit longer”, reinforcing that the injury is not a short-term issue.

Hamstring injuries typically require careful rehabilitation, especially for goalkeepers who rely heavily on explosive movements. Given his history with similar problems this season, the club is prioritizing a full recovery.

How has Alisson Becker been performing at Liverpool this year?

Alisson Becker has remained one of Liverpool’s most reliable performers this season. His shot-stopping ability, composure under pressure and distribution continue to be central to the team’s style of play.

In the 2025–26 Premier League season, he has recorded 8 clean sheets in around 25 appearances. His save percentage sits in the mid-60% range, while averaging over 2 saves per match, reflecting both his activity level and importance in Liverpool’s defensive structure. In the UEFA Champions League, his impact has been equally notable.

He has produced multiple clean sheets and key saves in limited appearances, including 11 saves and 3 clean sheets in just five matches, highlighting his ability to deliver in high-pressure European fixtures.

Beyond the numbers, his influence is tactical. He remains central to Liverpool’s build-up play, with passing accuracy close to 85%, allowing the team to play out from the back with confidence.

After a blistering start from PSG, the French side initially struggled to break down Liverpool’s compact defensive shape. The breakthrough came in the 11th minute, when Desire Doue buried the opener, rewarding the early pressure. PSG kept pushing, and another sharp move set up Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s brilliant 66th‑minute strike, sending the hosts into the final stretch with full momentum.

Liverpool tried to respond after falling two goals behind, pushing forward with more urgency and creating a handful of dangerous moments to stay alive in the matchup. But PSG remained composed, managing the tempo and preventing the visitors from finding a way back into the tie.

Despite a late surge from the visitors, PSG held firm and closed out the night with a clean sheet. Liverpool now return to Anfield needing a comeback to keep their semifinal hopes alive.

[Watch PSG vs Liverpool online in the US on Paramount+]

The reigning champions, Paris Saint-Germain, enter the quarterfinals riding high after a commanding 8-2 aggregate win over Chelsea in the Round of 16, a far more comfortable path than expected.

Now, PSG face a much sterner test against Liverpool, a team that may have had its ups and downs but still possesses the quality and experience to end PSG’s run and secure a spot in the semifinals.

When will the PSG vs Liverpool match be played?

PSG play against Liverpool this Wednesday, April 8, in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals. The game is set to kick off at 3:00 PM (ET).

PSG vs Liverpool: Time by State in the USA

ET: 3:00 PM
CT: 2:00 PM
MT: 1:00 PM
PT: 12:00 PM

How to watch PSG vs Liverpool in the USA

Get ready for the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League clash between PSG and Liverpool. Catch all the action live on Paramount+. Other options: ViX.

It’s a clash loaded with context: Pep Guardiola’s side is chasing a record eighth consecutive FA Cup semifinal, while Arne Slot‘s team arrive looking to stay alive in one of their last realistic paths to silverware this season.

Manchester City enter with momentum and dominance at home, having won 17 straight FA Cup matches at the Etihad and already beaten Liverpool twice in league play this season. Liverpool face added pressure amid injuries.

What happens if Liverpool beat Manchester City today?

If Liverpool beat Manchester City today, they will advance to the FA Cup semifinals and eliminate one of the tournament favorites. That result would send the English team to Wembley.

From a competitive standpoint, it would be a significant statement win. Liverpool have already beaten City in recent domestic cup ties, winning four straight FA Cup meetings between the sides.

It would also break one of the strongest trends in English soccer right now: Manchester City have won 17 consecutive FA Cup matches at the Etihad Stadium, a run dating back to 2018.

What happens if Liverpool and Manchester City tie today?

If Liverpool and Manchester City tie today, the match will go to extra time and, if necessary, penalties to decide who advances. There are no replays at the quarterfinal stage of the FA Cup, so a winner must be determined at the Etihad.

This scenario introduces a completely different tactical dimension. Both Arne Slot and Pep Guardiola must plan for a potential 120-minute game, which becomes especially relevant given the physical demands of the season.

What happens if Liverpool lose to Manchester City today?

If Liverpool lose to Manchester City today, they will be eliminated from the FA Cup in the quarterfinals. The defeat would end their run immediately and remove a key opportunity to win a trophy this season.

The context makes this outcome particularly significant. Manchester City are pushing for a historic milestone; an eighth consecutive FA Cup semifinal appearance, something no club has achieved before.

[Watch Manchester City vs Liverpool online in the US on Fubo]

All eyes turn to the FA Cup quarterfinals for a marquee showdown between two heavyweights with silverware still within reach, as Manchester City and Liverpool clash with a semifinal berth on the line. For City, their European exit has sharpened the focus on domestic success, making this tournament a top priority.

Liverpool, on the other hand, find themselves out of the Premier League title picture, leaving this competition as their clearest path to hardware—raising the stakes for a high-intensity battle where only one side will keep its title hopes alive.

When will the Manchester City vs Liverpool match be played?

The game for the 2025/2026 FA Cup quarterfinals between Manchester City and Liverpool will be played this Saturday, April 4 at 7:45 AM (ET).

Manchester City vs Liverpool: Time by State in the USA

ET: 7:45 AM
CT: 6:45 AM
MT: 5:45 AM
PT: 4:45 AM

How to watch Manchester City vs Liverpool in the USA

This FA Cup game between Manchester City and Liverpool will be broadcast in the United States on Fubo. Other options: DirecTV Stream, Sling Orange, ESPN+, ESPN and ESPN Deportes.

The trend of veteran superstars exiting Europe has accelerated in 2026. Most recently, Antoine Griezmann announced his move to Orlando City to join Messi in MLS. However, Salah is more likely to follow Cristiano Ronaldo to Saudi Arabia.

In December 2025, as contract extension talks with Liverpool stalled, Saudi officials reportedly intensified their pursuit. Salah has been heavily linked to Al Ittihad as a potential replacement for Karim Benzema, who recently transferred to Al Hilal.

Key factors favoring a move to the Middle East include a significantly higher salary package than what MLS can offer and the geographic proximity to his home country, Egypt.

A legendary nine-year chapter ends

Salah’s departure from Anfield is now a confirmed fact, officially announced by Liverpool. Since his arrival at the club in 2017, the Egyptian forward has transformed into one of the most significant figures in club’s history, playing a pivotal role in re-establishing the Reds as a global powerhouse among the world’s elite teams.

“The forward has reached an agreement with the Reds that will see him close a remarkable nine-year chapter at Anfield. Salah expressed his wish to make this announcement to the supporters at the earliest possible opportunity to provide transparency about his future due to his respect and gratitude for them,” Liverpool stated in an official statement.

Throughout his nine-year tenure at the club, Salah has scored 255 goals in 435 appearances to date, cementing his status as the third-highest scorer in Liverpool history.

Additionally, the Egyptian forward was instrumental in leading the club to an era of global dominance, winning two Premier League titles, the Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the UEFA Super Cup, the FA Cup, two League Cups, and an FA Community Shield.

Attempting an audacious Panenka-style finish, Salah saw his chipped effort comfortably smothered by Galatasaray captain Ugurcan Cakir.

The veteran goalkeeper’s composure under pressure denied the “Egyptian King” and kept the Turkish side’s upset hopes alive in a high-stakes European night.

This latest failure from the spot marks Salah’s third significant penalty miss of the 2025–26 campaign for club and country. The slump follows a high-profile miss in August’s Community Shield shootout against Crystal Palace and a saved spot-kick during Egypt’s heartbreaking AFCON third-place playoff loss to Nigeria in January.

Analyzing Mohamed Salah’s uncharacteristic statistical slump

Salah’s 2025–26 campaign has defied his usual standards of excellence, as the Egyptian winger struggles to find the clinical edge that defined his Anfield legacy.

With just five goals and six assists through 22 Premier League appearances, the “Egyptian King” is currently on pace for his lowest statistical output since arriving on Merseyside, a worrying trend for Arne Slot’s side as they push for a top-four finish.

The drought has been particularly stark in league play; prior to his recent strike against Wolves on March 3, Salah had gone over four months without a Premier League goal, dating back to a November 1 finish against Aston Villa.

This lack of production has changed with his performance in Europe, where he has scored four goals across eight Champions League fixtures (two against Galatasaray), leaving Liverpool searching for offensive answers in high-leverage moments.

Below is the comprehensive statistical breakdown of Salah’s performance across all competitions this season:

• Premier League Appearances: 22 Goals: 5 Assists: 6
• Champions League Appearances: 8 Goals: 4 Assists: 1
• FA Cup Appearances: 2 Goals: 2 Assists: 1
• Community Shield Appearances: 1 Goals: 0 Assists: 0
• 2025–26 Total (Liverpool) Appearances: 33 Goals: 11 Assists: 8

Arne Slot‘s team enters the decisive match needing a response and much of that responsibility falls on key players like Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai.

On the other side, Galatasaray arrive with confidence not only because of their aggregate lead, but also due to the form of players like Victor Osimhen, one of the club’s most decisive attacking threats this season.

What happens if Liverpool beat Galatasaray today?

If Liverpool FC win against Galatasaray, they qualify only if they overturn the aggregate deficit and would face Paris Saint-Germain.

After losing the first leg 1-0 in Istanbul, Liverpool must win by at least two goals at Anfield to advance directly. A 2-0, 3-1, or any victory by two or more goals would give them the edge on aggregate and complete the comeback.

If they win by exactly one goal—such as 1-0—the aggregate would be level, sending the tie to extra time and possibly penalties. With the away goals rule no longer in effect in the UEFA Champions League, only the total score matters.

What happens if Liverpool and Galatasaray tie?

If Liverpool and Galatasaray draw, Galatasaray qualify for the quarterfinals. A draw in the second leg would preserve the 1-0 aggregate advantage from the first leg, sending the Turkish side through without the need for extra time.

There are no alternative outcomes here. Whether the draw is 0-0, 1-1, or higher-scoring, Galatasaray would still advance because they remain ahead on total goals. For Liverpool, this is effectively an elimination scenario.

What happens if Liverpool lose to Galatasaray today?

If Liverpool lose, they are eliminated and Galatasaray advance comfortably. Any defeat in the second leg would extend Okan Buruk team’s aggregate lead beyond the current 1-0 margin, confirming their superiority across both matches.

A loss would immediately end Liverpool’s run in the competition, with no second-leg recovery possible in the knockout format. It would also mark another early exit in Europe, increasing the pressure after an inconsistent campaign.

[Watch Liverpool vs Galatasaray online in the US on DirecTV Stream]

Galatasaray claimed a narrow but valuable 1–0 win at home in a first leg that proved just as intense as expected, though the slim margin leaves the series far from decided.

The stage now shifts to England, where Liverpool will look to overturn the deficit in front of their fans, confident that the atmosphere at Anfield can help them push past the Turkish side and keep their campaign alive.

When will the Liverpool vs Galatasaray match be played?

Liverpool play against Galatasaray this Wednesday, March 18, in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16. The game is set to kick off at 4:00 PM (ET).

Liverpool vs Galatasaray: Time by State in the USA

ET: 4:00 PM
CT: 3:00 PM
MT: 2:00 PM
PT: 1:00 PM

How to watch Liverpool vs Galatasaray in the USA

Get ready for the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League clash between Liverpool and Galatasaray. Catch all the action live on DirecTV Stream. Other options: Paramount+, UniMás, TUDN and ViX.