Liverpool has confirmed that striker Hugo Ekitike suffered a severe Achilles injury and will be out for the remainder of the season and the World Cup with France. The injury occurred during the Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield when Ekitike slipped on the turf and had to be substituted in the first half. Scans have confirmed a rupture of the Achilles tendon, which could keep the 23-year-old out for at least six months, with a worst-case scenario of up to nine months.
Liverpool stated, "Ekitike will be sidelined for the rest of the club season and will not participate in the World Cup with France." France head coach Didier Deschamps expressed his support for Ekitike, saying, "Hugo had perfectly integrated into the group, and this injury is a huge blow for him and the team. I'm convinced he will regain his top form." Ekitike's injury comes at a crucial time for Liverpool as they aim to secure a Champions League spot, sitting fifth in the Premier League. The striker has scored 19 goals for Liverpool and France this season after signing from Eintracht Frankfurt for £79m last summer.
His absence will be deeply felt, especially with the team's history of injuries this season, including Alexander Isak's return from a serious leg injury.