Join on WhatsApp
Join on Telegram
Rabat – Hugo Ekitike is set to miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to ESPN, after suffering a devastating Achilles tendon rupture during Liverpool FC’s 2-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second leg at Anfield.
The French forward was stretchered off in tears after just 22 minutes on Tuesday night, in what quickly became one of the defining moments of the match. According to the same source, the player, Ekitike, heard his Achilles “snap” before collapsing in visible pain, with no opponent near him at the time of the incident.
A devastating blow for club and country
Initial assessments suggest the injury will sideline Ekitike for between nine and twelve months, effectively ruling him out of the upcoming World Cup. While Liverpool have yet to officially confirm the diagnosis, preparations are already underway for surgery followed by a long rehabilitation process.
The timing could not be worse for both club and country. Ekitike had been expected to play a role with France national football team this summer, making the injury a significant setback for Didier Deschamps’ plans.
At club level, Liverpool face a crucial run-in as they push for a top-five finish in the Premier League. Losing a player who has contributed 17 goals and six assists in his debut season represents a major setback in their attacking options.
Slot’s concern confirmed
Liverpool manager Arne Slot expressed immediate concern after the match. “It doesn’t look good. We could all see that.” Speaking again later, he added: “It looks really bad but it is difficult for me to say how bad. We will investigate this further,” Slot said.
Teammate Ibrahima Konaté also reacted emotionally, saying: “With the World Cup coming, it is very, very hard for him. I send him my prayers.”
Injury scene raises alarm
The nature of the incident, Ekitike collapsing without contact while clutching his ankle, immediately raised fears of a serious tendon injury. He received lengthy treatment on the pitch before being replaced, with Mohamed Salah coming on as a substitute.
The scenes at Anfield were somber, with players from both sides visibly shaken as the young forward was carried off.
Promising season cut short
Ekitike had enjoyed an impressive first campaign on Merseyside following his move from PSG last summer. His performances quickly made him a key figure in Liverpool’s attack, combining pace, movement, and finishing ability.
However, his progress will be halted by a long recovery process, with his focus shifting entirely to rehabilitation and a return to full fitness.
For Liverpool and France alike, the loss of one of their emerging attacking talents is a harsh reminder of how quickly fortunes can change at the highest level of the game.
