Liverpool have been dealt a major and unexpected blow after Hugo Ekitiké suffered a serious injury. The incident occurred during a crucial Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain.
Moreover, it has been confirmed that the French forward will miss the rest of the season. In addition, his hopes of playing at the upcoming World Cup have been dashed.
The injury happened in the first half of Tuesday’s quarter-final second leg match. Ekitiké was forced off after what has been described as a suspected Achilles tendon rupture.
Although full medical confirmation is still pending, early signs suggest a lengthy recovery period.
Meanwhile, Liverpool confirmed that scans were carried out on Wednesday. An official update is expected to be released later this week.
However, France national team head coach Didier Deschamps has already made a firm decision. He ruled the striker out of his World Cup plans due to the severity of the injury.
“Hugo suffered a serious injury against PSG on Tuesday night,” Deschamps said. “Unfortunately, the severity of his injury will prevent him from finishing the season with Liverpool and from taking part in the World Cup.”
Furthermore, this setback comes at a time when Ekitiké has been a key figure for Liverpool. He currently leads the team’s scoring chart this season.
The 23-year-old has scored 17 goals across all competitions. His performances have made him one of the club’s most reliable attacking options.
In addition, his arrival last summer had raised expectations among supporters. He joined from Eintracht Frankfurt in a deal worth up to £79 million.
Since then, he has been widely regarded as one of Liverpool’s most impactful signings.
Therefore, his absence will be deeply felt as the season reaches its final stages. Liverpool will now need to adjust their attacking plans.
Meanwhile, the timing of the injury adds to the disappointment. The Champions League tie against PSG was already a difficult contest.
However, losing a key player in such a moment has further complicated matters for the team.
For France, the loss is equally significant ahead of the World Cup. Ekitiké had been expected to play a role in the squad.
Deschamps’ side is set to face Senegal, Iraq, and Norway in the group stage. However, they will now have to prepare without one of their rising stars.
