Jamie Carragher Questions Liverpool Level After PSG Defeat

• Carragher says Liverpool were fortunate to concede only twice in Paris
• Tactical approach under Arne Slot comes under scrutiny
• PSG display exposes gap ahead of Anfield return leg

Jamie Carragher watched from distance as Liverpool struggled to impose themselves against Paris Saint-Germain, and his verdict was direct.

The former defender described a performance that left Liverpool chasing the game for long stretches in Paris, where goals from Désiré Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia secured a 2-0 first leg lead.

The scoreline, in Carragher’s view, masked the balance of the contest.

“It was actually a great result for Liverpool because it could have been five or six,” he said. “The gulf in class was very worrying.”

Arne Slot set his side up with a back five, introducing Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong as wing backs in an attempt to contain PSG’s width and pace. The plan did not settle the game.

Carragher pointed to the spaces that opened up across the pitch, with Liverpool pulled into individual battles they struggled to manage.

“They were more open with the back five than they would be with a back four,” he said. “They went man to man and the centre backs had to cover too much ground.”

PSG moved the ball quickly and attacked from multiple areas, forcing Liverpool into long periods without control. The visitors offered little threat in response, leaving the tie tilted towards the French side ahead of the return leg.

Carragher also placed the performance in a wider context, noting the level shown by PSG on the night.

“It is not just Liverpool getting it wrong. PSG were exceptional,” he said.

Liverpool return to Anfield needing a response that restores both control and belief, with the margin still recoverable but the level required now clear.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.

More articles by Hailey →