Mohamed Salah finds himself shelved once more as Liverpool prepares for the Champions League quarterfinal second leg against Paris Saint-Germain. Manager Arne Slot opted against starting the Egyptian superstar, mirroring the decision made during last week’s 2-0 loss in Paris. Despite needing goals to overturn the deficit, Salah remains an option from the bench for the crucial home fixture.

Alexander Isak gets the nod up front, partnering Hugo Ekitike in attack. This marks Isak’s first start since December, as the £125 million acquisition continues regaining sharpness following a lengthy absence due to a broken leg and ankle injury. Slot clearly favors fitness or tactical suitability over Salah’s immediate impact in this must-win European encounter.

Liverpool’s midfield sees Florian Wirtz slotting in alongside Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, and Gravenberch. Giorgi Mamardashvili handles goalkeeping duties for the absent Alisson Becker. The absence of Salah, who is scheduled to depart the club at the season's close, forces Slot to rely on players like Isak to deliver the necessary European comeback.

This selection is a major talking point given Salah’s recent goal against Fulham, his first Anfield strike since November. The pressure mounts on the starting eleven, particularly Isak, to produce the 'something very special' Virgil van Dijk referenced earlier. The Reds require a massive performance to progress past Luis Enrique’s side.