PSG not out for revenge against Bayern, says Pochettino

Bayern beat PSG 1-0 in the final last year to seal a treble but Pochettino, who replaced manager Thomas Tuchel midway through this season, said this time would be different as they were playing a two-legged tie.

“The final is not a benchmark match for us, we weren’t there with my staff, we were just spectators,” Pochettino told reporters ahead of Wednesday’s first leg in Munich.

“In addition, it’s going to be played over two matches, the context is different. Revenge exists in sport but for us it’s more of a challenge to beat such a strong team, maybe the best in the world. It’s a source of motivation.”

Both sides will be missing key players, with PSG striker Mauro Icardi out with a thigh injury while midfielder Marco Verratti and his Italy team-mate Alessandro Florenzi both tested positive for Covid-19.

Bayern striker Robert Lewandowski is sidelined with a knee injury while winger Serge Gnabry tested positive for Covid-19 but Pochettino said the German league leaders had enough squad depth to remain competitive.

“The strength of Bayern is in its collective,” Pochettino added. “When you win the Champions League and the Club World Cup, it’s because you have a very good group, not just 11 performing players.”

Bayern coach Hansi Flick meanwhile says winning the trophy last year counts for little now.

“Paris are a new team with a new coach,” he said. “I don’t think that game matters anymore. We want to reach the semi-finals and the final. That is our aim.”

“They have a solid defence, a very good goalkeeper, but up front they have enormous quality.”

Flick said Bayern would have to press the French quickly when they attacked and beware of the speed of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe if they lose possession.

“There is this enormous quality they have, and if we lose possession then we have to stop them quickly. We also have to put them under pressure early.”

REUTERS