Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike will miss the upcoming World Cup after suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon during Tuesday’s Champions League quarter-final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.
Ekitike was withdrawn 31 minutes into Liverpool’s 2-0 defeat at home to PSG on Tuesday night after slipping on the turf.
He received lengthy treatment before being stretchered off the pitch and replaced by Mohammed Salah.
Liverpool boss Arne Slot and team-mate Ibrahima Konate appeared to fear the worst when asked about Ekitike’s situation after the game, and scans have now confirmed that he will face an extended period on the sidelines.
It is a nightmare blow for Ekitike, who was set for a significant role in the France squad this summer and may not play again before 2027.
Ekitike is Liverpool’s top goalscorer in all competitions, and has netted 19 goals for Liverpool and France this season after signing from Eintracht Frankfurt last summer.
The 23-year-old joins Wataru Endo, Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni, who are all recovering from long-term injuries.
Liverpool confirmed the news of Ekitike’s injury in a statement.
“Liverpool FC can confirm Hugo Ekitike has sustained a serious Achilles injury,” the statement read.
“The forward had to be substituted during the first half of Tuesday's Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield after a slip on the turf.
“Scans on the issue have subsequently confirmed a rupture of the Achilles tendon.
“Ekitike will therefore be sidelined for the remaining weeks of the club season and unable to participate at this summer's World Cup with France.
“Further updates will be provided at the appropriate time, with Hugo receiving the full support of everyone at LFC.”
