Hugo Ekitike has been ruled out for the remainder of the season and the upcoming FIFA World Cup after suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon, Liverpool FC confirmed on Thursday.
The 23-year-old striker sustained the injury during the first half of Liverpool’s UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield. He slipped on the turf and was forced off, as Liverpool went on to lose 2-0, crashing out of the competition 4-0 on aggregate.
Medical scans later confirmed the severity of the injury, ending his campaign and ruling him out of international duty. The development aligns with earlier remarks from France head coach Didier Deschamps regarding the player’s fitness concerns ahead of the World Cup.
In a statement, Liverpool said Ekitike will receive full support from the club throughout his recovery, with further updates to be provided in due course.
The forward, who joined Liverpool from Eintracht Frankfurt last July, has been in outstanding form, finishing as the club’s top scorer this season with 17 goals in all competitions, including 11 in the Premier League. He has also earned eight caps for France, scoring twice.
Reacting to the setback, Ekitike expressed gratitude despite the disappointment.
“It’s hard, maybe even unfair,” he said. “But I’m grateful this is happening to me here, among you. I’m not alone—your strength and your love will be my driving force.
“See you again soon, Anfield.”
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