Hakimi is part of PSG's squad for the crucial match against Liverpool. 2025

 Luis Enrique, the manager of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), has officially announced the squad of players who will be taking part in the highly anticipated encounter against Liverpool on Wednesday. This match marks the first leg of the Round of 16 in the UEFA Champions League, a crucial stage in the prestigious tournament. PSG will be going into the match with their full-strength squad, which includes 22 players, and among them is the star Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi, who is set to play an essential role in their defensive lineup.

In preparation for this significant Champions League clash, Luis Enrique has selected a balanced team consisting of both experienced players and new talents, all of whom have the potential to make a significant impact on the field. The players called up for the match include the following:

Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Donnarumma

Defenders: Achraf Hakimi, Presnel Kimpembe, Marquinhos, Lucas Hernández, Nuno Mendes, and Barcola

Midfielders: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha, and Zaire Emery

Forwards: Gonçalo Ramos, Ousmane Dembélé, and Kylian Mbappé

Other squad members include Pi Kang In, Maiolo, Parkola, Peraldo, Safonov, Bachou, Tinas, and João Neves.

The Parisian side is eager to make a statement in the Champions League this season and is approaching the match with determination and focus. PSG’s squad is filled with some of the most talented footballers in the world, including their star player Kylian Mbappé, who has been in fantastic form throughout the season. Mbappé, along with Dembélé and Ramos, will be leading the attacking charge against a tough Liverpool defense.

PSG made it to the Round of 16 by successfully advancing through the qualification stage, where they triumphed over French side Brest with an impressive 10-0 aggregate score in the two-legged playoff. This dominant victory has given the team a boost in confidence heading into their next major test against Liverpool. The team’s offensive capabilities have been on full display in the previous rounds, with a potent attacking trio that is capable of breaking down even the most resilient defenses.

On the other hand, Liverpool qualified directly for the Round of 16, having finished at the top of their group in the group stages of the competition. This impressive feat came after a series of strong performances that saw the English club finish first in the league standings, following eight rounds of play in the first season of the new system, which now involves 36 teams. Jurgen Klopp’s side has been one of the most consistent teams in Europe, and their qualification to the knockout stages without the need for a playoff has solidified their status as one of the top contenders for this year’s Champions League title.

Both PSG and Liverpool are fully aware of the magnitude of this match and are prepared for a thrilling encounter. The first leg, which will be played at PSG's home stadium, Parc des Princes, is expected to be a high-octane match filled with intense moments, skillful plays, and possibly game-changing moments. The winner of this round will gain a significant advantage heading into the second leg, making this match crucial for both teams' ambitions of progressing further in 

the tournament.