Gerard Pique spoke to Express Sport at EPT Barcelona (Image: PokerStars)
Gerard Pique believes Liverpool have fallen into the “second tier” of favourites for the Champions League trophy this season.
The Reds have parted ways with Jurgen Klopp and have been handed a tough draw that includes a home clash against reigning champions Real Madrid.
The strength of Real's squad, especially with the addition of Kylian Mbappe, gives them a good chance of winning a 16th European Cup.
Pique believes only a Manchester City inspired by Erling Haaland can stop Carlo Ancelotti's men.
“I think Real Madrid and City are both favourites because of the teams they have and the players they have,” Pique told Express Sport on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of EPT Barcelona hosted by PokerStars.
“And I also think they are the last two champions, I think they are the favorites.
“Liverpool, with a new coach, are in the second category of favourites.
“I think City and Madrid are the first ones, then there is a second tier where you have Liverpool, PSG, Arsenal, Barcelona will be there, Bayern Munich.”
Gerard Pique names Liverpool as second favourites (Image: Getty)
Real Madrid's visit to Liverpool on November 27 is the highlight of the League's group stage matches.
It will be new manager Arne Slot's first big European night at Anfield and a huge opportunity to leave his mark.
Pique had a wry smile when told of the match moments after the draw, with his great rivals heading into Europe's toughest away game.
But he believes the La Liga side have the experience to do the job.
“It will be a very good match,” Pique said. “I think Real are favourites, but it will be very difficult to win.”
“Even if they signed Mbappe, there are other teams that also have good players, so let's see.
“Real Madrid have historically won the title many times, so we can always count on them.”
Pique has won four Champions League titles during his glittering career: one with Manchester United and three with Barcelona.
And in his experience, even with the best preparation, you can't lift the trophy without a little luck.
The new format also adds an air of uncertainty, with the European powers from Pot 1 now playing two matches against each other in the first leg, whereas previously they were split.
“The Champions League is very difficult, you have to be ready at the right time and have a bit of luck in the right situations,” he said.
“It’s also the start of a new format, so let’s see how it goes.”
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1946338/gerard-pique-man-city-liverpool-real-madrid