Ekitike ruled out of World Cup as France coach Deschamps confirms injury setback

Hugo Ekitike will not feature at the 2026 World Cup after suffering a serious injury, France coach Didier Deschamps has confirmed.

The Liverpool FC striker picked up the injury during Tuesday’s Champions League quarter-final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, going down in the first half while holding his lower right leg, with a suspected Achilles tendon rupture.

“Unfortunately, the severity of (Ekitike’s) injury will prevent him from finishing the season with Liverpool and taking part in the World Cup,” Deschamps said.

“This injury is a huge blow for him, of course, but also for the French national team.

“I wanted to express my full support for him, as well as that of the entire coaching staff.”

The 23-year-old has been in strong form since joining Liverpool for £79 million, scoring 17 goals in 45 games.

He has also established himself in the national team, registering two goals and one assist in eight appearances since his debut in September.

Liverpool boss Arne Slot admitted the injury looks serious.

“It looks really bad, but difficult for me to say how bad,” he said.

“Losing a player is something we have had many times this season, but it is especially hard for him because you never want to be injured, especially at this time of the season.”

Liverpool’s season has been hampered by injuries, with the team currently fifth in the league and unlikely to secure any trophies this term.

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