Having embarked on the same journey, first with Mainz and then with Borussia Dortmund, Thomas Tuchel’s path finally crosses with Jurgen Klopp’s when Paris Saint-Germain face Liverpool in the group stage of the Champions League.

The Ligue 1 giants travel to Anfield as the Reds have enjoyed a stellar start to the Premier League, winning all five of their fixtures so far.

Tuchel however, must devise a plan to overcome last season’s runners-up and here’s a couple of tactics he could consider.

THREE AT THE BACK

Tuchel utilised a three-man central defence at home to Angers last month and may consider doing so again when his side take on Liverpool’s high-press. The PSG boss will be well-versed with the gegenpressing tactics the Premier League outfit employs.

In this system, Thiago Silva – at the heart of the defence – will have more options for a pass at his disposal. PSG aren’t averse to play more direct vertical balls forward as well to bypass the press and will have three excellent targets in Neymar, Edinson Cavani and Kylian Mbappe to aim at with the trio occupying central positions in the final third.

DIAGONAL BALLS

Liverpool’s full-backs have a reputation of adopting advanced positions when the team is in possession. This season, Klopp has ensured that only one full-back commits to the attack at a time but that still presents the opportunity for a quick diagonal during the transition.

That would be particularly effective should PSG’s attacking triumvirate take up threatening positions, ready to dart into space when possession is turned over. All three are capable of pulling out wide into space, possibly taking one of the centre-backs with them and disrupting Liverpool’s defensive shape.

With Marquinhos playing in midfield, the visitors should look to absorb pressure with a low block and then feed their front men with the diagonal. Andrew Robertson is very attacking by nature but will have to keep an eye on the pacey Mbappe down his side.