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.
Klopp will want to keep that momentum going with a strong start to their European campaign and here’s a couple of tactics he could consider.
HENDERSON MARKING NEYMAR
Whether Tuchel chooses to field a 3-4-1-2 or 4-2-3-1 formation, both would feature Neymar in a central role in behind a front pair of Edinson Cavani and Kylian Mbappe. Should the talented Brazilian – who was rested over the weekend – receive the ball between the lines, there’s no telling the damage he could inflict on the Liverpool defence, particularly with two devastating forward runners operating ahead of him.
Limiting his influence on the game will be key and Jordan Henderson could be the man for the job. Georginio Wijnaldum has played as the anchorman in midfield this season but the England international’s alertness in defence and strong work ethic could pay dividends in the role this time around.
Henderson
SALAH AS A NO9
Roberto Firmino should be available for the encounter despite suffering an abrasion of the eye when he clashed with Jan Vertonghen over the weekend. However, should the Brazilian miss this fixture, it presents the opportunity to play Mohamed Salah as a striker.
It wouldn’t be the first time Klopp would’ve chosen to use the Egyptian in that role. Between a possible trio of Presnel Kimpembe, Angel Di Maria and Marquinhos down his side, there is a danger of him being crowded out of the game. His pace through the middle would command the attention of the centre-backs and perhaps create space for forward runners – like Naby Keita – from midfield.
Forward: Mohamed Salah