Gerard Pique makes Liverpool and Man City Champions League prediction - EXCLUSIVE

Gerard Pique thinks Liverpool have dropped into the 'second tier' of favourites for the Champions League trophy this season.

The Reds parted ways with Jurgen Klopp and were given a difficult draw that includes a home clash against defending champions Real Madrid.

The strength of Real's squad, especially with the addition of Kylian Mbappe, has them odds on for a 16th European Cup.

Pique reckons only an Erling Haaland-inspired Manchester City can stop Carlo Ancelotti's men in their tracks.

"I think Real Madrid and City are both favourites for the teams that they have and the players," Pique told Express Sport at PokerStars' 20th anniversary of EPT Barcelona.

"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."

Real's visit to Liverpool on November 27 is the pick of the League Phase ties.

It will be new manager Arne Slot's first major European night at Anfield and a huge chance to lay down a marker.

Pique had a wry smile when told of this match-up moments after the draw was made, his arch-rivals going to the toughest away game in Europe.

But he believes the La Liga side have the experience to get the job done.

"That will be a very good game," Pique said. "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 won four Champions League titles during his glittering career - one with Manchester United and three at Barcelona.

And in his experience, even with the very best preparation, you can't lift the trophy without a slice of luck.

The new format also adds an air of uncertainty, with European powerhouses in pot 1 now playing two games against each other in the first stage, whereas previously they were kept apart.

"The Champions League is very tough and to be ready at the right time and right moment and also to have a little bit of luck in the right situations," he said.

"It is the beginning of a new format also so let's see how it goes."