According to Arne Slot, Liverpool's decision to sign two centre-forwards in the summer now seems like a wise move, especially given Hugo Ekitike's devastating injury. Ekitike will miss the remainder of the season and the World Cup due to a ruptured Achilles tendon.
Slot expressed his sympathy for the player, stating that it's unfortunate for him to suffer such an injury after just joining the club. However, he also believes that Ekitike can come back stronger, citing examples of players who have overcome similar setbacks to perform at an even higher level. The injury has highlighted the importance of having multiple options up front, with Slot joking that it's fortunate they signed two No 9s, as some people had questioned the decision at the time.
With Alexander Isak still regaining fitness after his own long-term injury, Slot is relieved to have him back, but acknowledges that he's not yet ready to play 90 minutes. The focus now shifts to securing Champions League football, starting with the upcoming Merseyside derby against Everton.
Despite the 2-0 defeat to PSG, Slot remains optimistic about the team's future, pointing to their ability to generate 21 shots and have high xG against a dominant team. He believes that with some changes in the summer, the team can compete with the best in Europe.