Liverpool manager Arne Slot has expressed concern over the severity of Hugo Ekitike's injury, describing it as "really bad" after the French forward was stretchered off during the team's Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. The injury occurred just before the half-hour mark, with Ekitike clutching his right ankle area in visible pain before receiving treatment.
He was replaced by Mohamed Salah and left the field on a stretcher, sparking fears of a serious lower leg injury, potentially an Achilles issue. Slot stated, "He's not good.
We could all see that it didn't look good," and added that the player went home in the second half. The manager emphasized that losing a game is hard, but losing a player, especially at this time of the season, is even more challenging. Ekitike has been instrumental for both Liverpool and France, scoring 19 goals this season, and his injury could impact his participation in the upcoming World Cup. Teammate Ibrahima Konate shared his sadness over the incident, saying, "I'm very sad for him.
I think it is bad." Despite the setback, Slot found positives in Liverpool's performance, noting significant progression compared to their previous match. The team's inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities and the overturned penalty decision were highlighted as factors that contributed to their defeat. With their Champions League campaign concluded, Liverpool's focus shifts to securing a spot in next season's competition, starting with their upcoming derby against Everton.