According to Arne Slot, Liverpool's decision to sign two centre-forwards in the summer now seems like a smart move, especially after Hugo Ekitike suffered a devastating injury. Ekitike will miss the remainder of the season and the World Cup with France due to a ruptured Achilles tendon. Slot expressed his sympathy for the player, stating that his first thoughts are with Ekitike, who will be out for an extended period and will miss significant moments. However, Slot believes that Ekitike can come back stronger, citing examples of players who have returned from similar injuries to perform at an even higher level.
The timing of Ekitike's injury is unfortunate, with Alexander Isak having just returned from his own long-term layoff. Slot started Isak in his first match since December, but he struggled to make an impact and was substituted at halftime. Slot acknowledged that having two No 9s has proven beneficial, given the current situation. He also expressed optimism about the team's future, despite the 2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, pointing to the team's ability to generate 21 shots and have a high xG.
Slot believes that with some changes, the team can compete with the best in Europe. Liverpool's focus is now on securing Champions League football, starting with the Merseyside derby against Everton.