"That will be a very good game" - Gerard Pique makes early prediction for UCL clash between Real Madrid and Liverpool
Gerard Pique has previewed Liverpool's UEFA Champions League clash against Real Madrid set to take place on November 27. The Barcelona legend believes Los Blancos are the favorites to win it.
The Merseysiders secured Champions League qualification after finishing third in the Premier League last season. The Reds were in excellent form under Jurgen Klopp, winning 24 matches out of 38.
With the German tactician's departure and the Champions League's new format commencing this season, Liverpool have been dealt a difficult draw under new manager Arne Slot. They will face the likes of Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen, amongst others, in the league phase.
The Reds will face Madrid at Anfield in their fifth fixture of the competition and Gerard Pique has made an early prediction. The Spaniard, while acknowledging Madrid have strengthened by signing Kylian Mbappe, does see some difficulty for the 15-time winners.
Pique told Express Sport:
"That will be a very good game. 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."
Pique has won four Champions League titles during his playing days, one with Manchester United and three with Barcelona.
Gerard Pique picks favorites to win Champions League this season between Liverpool and Real Madrid
Gerard Pique has also made his prediction for who will win the Champions League this season. The former Barcelona defender has backed Real Madrid to clinch the title over the Merseysiders.
Los Blancos extended their record by winning their 15th Champions League trophy last season, along with the La Liga title. The season before, Manchester City secured "Big Ears" in an iconic treble triumph.
Pique sees Madrid and City as frontrunners to lift the trophy while placing the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal, and Bayern Munich in the second tier on his list of favorites. He said:
"I think Real Madrid and City are both favourites for the teams that they have and the players. 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."