Liverpool manager Arne Slot has expressed concern over the severity of Hugo Ekitike's injury, which forced the French forward to be stretchered off during the Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. The injury, which appeared to be a serious lower leg issue, occurred just before the half-hour mark at Anfield. Ekitike clutched his right ankle area in visible pain before receiving treatment and being replaced by Mohamed Salah.
Speaking to Amazon Prime, Slot described the injury as 'not good' and revealed that Ekitike had gone home in the second half. In his post-match press conference, Slot added that the injury 'looks really bad' but the full extent of the damage will be determined after further investigation. Ekitike has scored 19 goals for Liverpool and France this season and was likely to feature for his country at the World Cup if fit. Teammate Ibrahima Konate expressed his sadness for Ekitike, saying 'it's very hard for him at this moment.' Despite the setback, Slot took positives from Liverpool's Champions League quarter-final exit, citing the team's progression compared to the first leg and the fans' support.
The Reds' attention now turns to ensuring they qualify for next season's Champions League, starting with Sunday's derby at Everton.