Liverpool's 2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday night wasn’t just a blow on the scoreboard—it triggered a sharp critique from the French press. L’Equipe, in particular, handed out scathing ratings to several Liverpool players, with one receiving a notably low 2/10. Here’s a breakdown of the harshest assessments for the Reds in a night they’ll likely want to forget.
Goalkeeper and Defence Struggles
Liverpool's goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili was rated 5/10, with L'Equipe acknowledging his “effectiveness” but noting that his actions often appeared unorthodox. While he improved from previous performances, his distribution still caused moments of unease. The defenders fared even worse: Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez both received 3/10 ratings. Frimpong, described as having a “complete off day,” struggled with technical errors and defensive lapses, while Kerkez was labeled the “weak link” in Liverpool’s defence, often being exploited by PSG’s attacking players.
Virgil van Dijk’s rating was slightly better at 5/10, but L'Equipe highlighted that he was a far cry from the dominant, world-class defender he used to be. The Dutchman’s inability to impose himself in crucial moments was seen as a key issue in the defeat.
Midfield and Offensive Failures
In midfield, Dominik Szoboszlai, often touted as Liverpool’s best player this season, received a disappointing 4/10. Despite his high work rate and glimpses of quality, L’Equipe stated that his offensive impact was “non-existent,” suggesting that manager Arne Slot’s decision to move him to right-back later in the game spoke volumes about his underwhelming performance. Ryan Gravenberch also received a 5/10, with L’Equipe noting his "sloppiness" in the first half, though he improved after the break and initiated a few Liverpool attacks.
Florian Wirtz and Alexis Mac Allister both received 4/10 ratings. Wirtz, despite contributing defensively, was described as “highly insufficient” in his overall performance. Mac Allister, meanwhile, “exerted very little influence” on the game and was criticized for his role in PSG's opening goal by Ousmane Dembélé.
Salah's Efforts and Isak’s Invisible Performance
Mo Salah earned Liverpool's highest rating of 6/10 for his relentless work rate and creativity. While he wasn’t perfect, L'Equipe praised his constant attempts to make a difference, noting key moments like a dangerous cross and a through ball that could’ve led to a chance if Kerkez had capitalized.
In stark contrast, Alexander Isak was heavily criticized, receiving a dismal 2/10. L'Equipe described him as having “vanished” from the game, missing chances and managing only five touches. His substitution, Cody Gakpo, fared no better, also receiving a 5/10 for his ineffective performance.
Arne Slot's Tactical Decisions Under Fire
Manager Arne Slot did not escape scrutiny either. He was rated 3/10 for his decisions throughout the match, especially his choice to start Isak, which backfired as the forward failed to make an impact. His decision to keep Salah on the bench until later in the game was also questioned, as the Egyptian made an immediate impact after coming on. Additionally, Slot’s use of Joe Gomez, who came on at halftime but was subbed off in the 67th minute, was deemed “not particularly convincing.”
In the eyes of L'Equipe, Slot’s tactical decisions didn’t inspire confidence, leaving questions about whether Liverpool was fully prepared for the challenge they faced.
