Gerard Pique Makes 2024/25 Liverpool Champions League Prediction
Gerard Pique has shared his predictions for the 2024/25 Champions League campaign.
According to Pique, Liverpool have now dropped into the ‘second tier’ of contenders for the Champions League title this season.
The Reds recently parted ways with their long-time manager Jurgen Klopp and have been handed a challenging group draw, which includes a home fixture against defending champions, Real Madrid.
With the addition of Kylian Mbappe to an already strong Real Madrid squad, the Spanish giants are considered the clear favourites to claim a record 16th European Cup.
Pique believes that only a Manchester City team, led by the talents of Erling Haaland, has the potential to derail Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid this season.
“I think Real Madrid and City are both favourites for the teams that they have and the players,” Pique told Express Sport at PokerStars’ 20th anniversary of EPT Barcelona.
“And also I think they are the last two champions, I think they are the favourites.
“Liverpool with a new coach are in tier two of being the favourites.
“I think City and Madrid are first and then there is a second tier where you have Liverpool, PSG, Arsenal, Barcelona will be there, Bayern Munich.”
Real Madrid’s trip to Liverpool on November 27 stands out as the most anticipated fixture of the League Phase.
For new manager Arne Slot, it will mark his first significant European night at Anfield, presenting a golden opportunity to make a statement.
When informed of the match-up shortly after the draw, Pique responded with a knowing smile, aware that his former club face Europe’s toughest away challenge.
Nonetheless, he remains confident that the La Liga team has the experience needed to secure a positive result.
“That will be a very good game,” Pique said. “I think in names Real are the favourites but it is very difficult to win it.
“Even though they have signed Mbappe there are other teams that have also good players so let’s see.
“Real Madrid have historically won it so many times so you can always count on them.”
Piqué won four Champions League titles over his illustrious career—one with Manchester United and three with Barcelona.
In his view, even with impeccable preparation, winning the trophy often requires a bit of luck.
The new format introduces an element of unpredictability, as European giants in pot 1 now face off against each other in the opening stage, unlike before when they were kept separate.
“The Champions League is very tough and to be ready at the right time and right moment and also to have a little bit of luck in the right situations,” he said.
“It is the beginning of a new format also so let’s see how it goes.”
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