Liverpool is gearing up for a tough match against PSG in the Champions League on Wednesday, as they travel to France for the last-16 round. The Reds performed strongly in the league phase, finishing at the top with seven wins out of eight games, but now face a difficult draw in PSG, who are in fantastic form.
PSG has won their last 10 games, scoring a total of 30 goals. It will be a significant challenge for Liverpool to contain them, with the French side currently looking unstoppable. This is a rare encounter between the two clubs, having only met four times before in the Champions League.
While there aren’t many players who have played for both teams, Mamadou Sakho is one of the few. Sakho, who had strong connections to both PSG and Liverpool, recently shared his thoughts ahead of Wednesday’s game. PSG was where Sakho began his career, coming through their youth ranks and eventually becoming their captain. His departure to Liverpool in 2013 marked a significant moment in his career, although his time at Anfield ended on a sour note. Now, at 35 years old, Sakho has stated he won’t choose sides in the upcoming game.
Speaking to Le Parisien, Sakho shared, “Honestly, it’s really 50-50 between the two and a pleasure to watch. Anything could be decided by a moment of brilliance from [Ousmane] Dembele, [Bradley] Barcola, or [Mohamed] Salah, or by a surge from [Achraf] Hakimi or [Trent] Alexander-Arnold. And, perhaps, the fans will make the difference.”
Sakho also emphasized the special atmosphere at PSG’s Parc des Princes, warning that Liverpool’s players will need to be prepared for the challenge. He also mentioned that PSG players would never forget the return leg in Liverpool, whether they win or lose, because of the unique experience of playing at Anfield.
“The winner of this match won’t just be the favourite to win the competition, but it will be a match that everyone will remember,” Sakho said. “And my heart won’t lean towards one side. I’ll feel equally connected to both clubs.”
Sakho Still Has Fond Memories of Liverpool
Despite the tensions during his time at Liverpool, particularly with Jurgen Klopp, who sent him home early from a pre-season trip in 2016 due to a disagreement, Sakho continues to speak highly of the club. He expressed his affection for Anfield, calling it a “mythical and special arena,” and described the unique atmosphere that makes anything possible there.
Sakho reflected on his admiration for Liverpool even before joining the club. “When I played at PSG, Liverpool was my favourite English team,” he shared. “I loved this club. After PSG, Liverpool was the team I admired the most, and I knew the club’s rich history, which was very exciting for me as a player.”
The former French international also praised the traditions of the city and the passionate Liverpool fans. His fond words show that despite his complicated history with the club, Sakho holds Liverpool close to his heart.
