Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike set to miss World Cup after Achilles injury

Liverpool FC forward Hugo Ekitike is likely to miss the 2026 World Cup and the remainder of the season after sustaining a severe Achilles tendon injury.

The French striker suffered the injury during Tuesday’s Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield, going down midway through the first half after pushing off his right foot.

Initial reports suggest a recovery period of up to nine months, dealing a major setback to both club and country.

Ekitike appeared to hold his right Achilles in pain before being taken off on a stretcher, as teammates looked on.

Liverpool coach Arne Slot acknowledged the severity of the situation after the match.

“Hugo looks really bad, but it is difficult to say how bad,” he said.

“Let’s see. It doesn’t look good, that is clear. I didn’t see him at half-time, and after the game he was already home. I have not spoken to him yet.”

The 23-year-old, who joined Liverpool in a £69 million deal, has impressed in his first season with 11 Premier League goals and a total of 17 goals and six assists in 45 matches.

His absence is expected to be a significant blow for both Liverpool and the French national team.