Reports of Ekitike's absence from the World Cup

Liverpool were dealt a significant setback after Hugo Ekitike sustained a serious injury during the Champions League quarter‑final second leg against Paris Saint‑Germain, a match the Reds lost 2–0 at Anfield. The French forward collapsed in the thirtieth minute with no contact involved, immediately signalling distress before being carried off on a stretcher in tears. Mohamed Salah replaced him.

Le Parisien reported that early assessments point to a ruptured Achilles tendon, an injury that could sideline Ekitike for up to nine months pending official confirmation. The timing is particularly damaging, arriving just two months before the 2026 World Cup. Liverpool’s medical staff are awaiting final test results to determine the full extent of the damage and outline a rehabilitation plan. Inside the club, concern is growing over the player’s condition, with the severity of the incident casting a shadow over Liverpool’s hopes for the remainder of the season.