Luis Enrique admitted he was caught off guard by Arne Slot’s tactical approach during Liverpool FC’s 2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.

PSG delivered a commanding performance in Paris, with Desire Doue and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia finding the net in each half to secure the win.

Slot opted for a significant tactical shift, deploying a back three of Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez, with Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez operating as wing-backs. Despite the defensive setup, Liverpool struggled badly, failing to register a single shot on target and seeing very little of the ball.

Reflecting on the match, Enrique noted that it was the first time this season Slot had used a back three, suggesting the decision showed Liverpool were experimenting in response to PSG’s strengths. He added that such tactical adjustments are expected, as many teams try to adapt their shape when facing his side.

In a separate interview, the PSG boss praised Slot as a high-level coach but reiterated his surprise at the system change, while also acknowledging Liverpool’s physicality and individual quality. He described the contest as an enjoyable tactical battle despite the one-sided outcome.

Slot later explained that his decision was driven by the need to deal with PSG’s explosive pace, particularly from Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes on the flanks. By using Frimpong and Kerkez in deeper roles, he aimed to apply aggressive pressure while still having defensive cover.

However, the plan backfired at key moments. Slot admitted that whenever Liverpool tried to press high, they were repeatedly exposed by PSG’s speed and movement, leading to several dangerous chances.

He also pushed back against the focus on formations, arguing that the system can be interpreted differently depending on perspective. In his view, the setup could just as easily be seen as a variation of a 4-3-3, rather than a strictly defensive five-at-the-back approach.

Ultimately, Slot pointed to the fine margins at this level, suggesting that any alternative approach — particularly one with more attacking wingers — could have left his side even more vulnerable against PSG’s relentless pace.

Tottenham Hotspur have been hit with another major setback after Mohammed Kudus emerged as a doubt for the remainder of the season due to injury.

The 25-year-old winger has been out of action since early January, when he picked up a thigh problem during a 1-1 draw with Sunderland AFC. Initial assessments from former manager Thomas Frank suggested a serious issue involving both the tendon and quadriceps, ruling him out for several months.

There had been optimism within the club that Kudus could return following the recent international break, but fresh concerns have now emerged. Reports indicate that surgery may be required, raising fears that his season could already be over.

There is also growing uncertainty over his availability for the Ghana national football team ahead of the upcoming World Cup, where they are scheduled to face Panama, England and Croatia in the group stage.

Kudus, who arrived from West Ham United in a £55 million move last summer, has contributed three goals and five assists in a campaign disrupted by fitness issues.

The timing is particularly difficult for new head coach Roberto De Zerbi, who is preparing to take charge of his first match this weekend. Spurs travel to Sunderland in a crucial fixture as they battle to avoid relegation, currently sitting just above the drop zone.

Arsenal FC were without Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber for their Champions League quarter-final first leg clash against Sporting CP on Tuesday night.

Manager Mikel Arteta opted for a heavily rotated lineup, making eight changes from the side that suffered a 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Southampton FC over the weekend.

David Raya returned between the posts, while William Saliba partnered Riccardo Calafiori in defence. In midfield, Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice were handed starts, with Noni Madueke, Leandro Trossard and Viktor Gyokeres leading the attack.

There was a boost at the back as Gabriel Magalhaes, who had been forced off against Southampton, recovered in time to feature alongside Saliba.

Speaking before the match, Arteta expressed optimism that both Saka and Timber could return for the upcoming Premier League fixture against AFC Bournemouth, provided their recovery continues smoothly. He admitted the recent run of injuries has disrupted the squad and stressed the need for key players to return as soon as possible.

Elsewhere, Eberechi Eze remains sidelined with a calf problem, having now missed three consecutive matches. Arteta was unable to give a clear timeline for his return, suggesting the situation remains uncertain.

Both Mikel Merino and Piero Hincapie were also unavailable for the trip to Portugal due to injury, further adding to Arsenal’s selection challenges at a crucial stage of the season.