Paul Merson insists Liverpool must take a specific approach against PSG as he issues a warning to the Reds.

Paul Merson has issued a warning to Liverpool ahead of their Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday night.

The Reds return to European action with a round-of-16 tie against the French champions, who, like Arne Slot’s side, hold a commanding 13-point lead in their domestic league. The last time these teams met in the competition six years ago, they exchanged home victories—Liverpool kickstarting their eventual Champions League-winning campaign with a 3-2 win, while PSG responded with a 2-1 triumph in Paris.

Merson: Liverpool Must Avoid Defeat in Paris

In his latest Sky Sports column, Merson stressed that Liverpool cannot afford to lose the first leg at the Parc des Princes. He highlighted PSG’s strong form under Luis Enrique but suggested the Reds would be in a favorable position if they secure a result on Wednesday.

“I don’t see Liverpool winning at PSG – but they have to come back with at least a draw,” Merson wrote. “This is a game where either team could end the tie in 45 minutes if the other has an off day. Both sides are capable of tearing opponents apart.

“We saw PSG’s firepower against Man City, scoring four goals in one half, and we’ve seen Liverpool demolish teams. I don’t think there’s much between them.

“PSG have changed their approach—they’re no longer just a collection of superstars, and it’s working. In the past, they never truly looked like winning the Champions League.

“But PSG can’t afford to lose this first leg either, because playing at Anfield in the second leg is an entirely different challenge.”

Liverpool Should Be Confident Despite PSG’s Strength

Both teams enter this tie in superb domestic form, so confidence will be high on both sides.

Merson points out that PSG have actually improved this season despite shifting away from their high-profile transfer strategy. Even without Kylian Mbappe, they have been dominant, with their 4-2 victory over Manchester City in January showcasing their attacking threat. However, they also trailed 2-0 in that match, and Liverpool are unlikely to be as vulnerable as Pep Guardiola’s side if put in a similar situation.

PSG come into this game on a 10-match winning streak, but they have yet to face a team of Liverpool’s caliber during this run. Meanwhile, the Reds should be well-rested after their FA Cup exit gave them a break over the weekend.

A draw in Paris would give Liverpool a strong foundation to finish the job at Anfield next Tuesday. However, if they are clinical in both penalty areas—just as they were against Manchester City and Newcastle last week—there’s every chance they could leave the Parc des Princes with a win.