Ekitike injured, set to miss the 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

The Champions League night at Anfield turned into a nightmare for Arne Slot’s side. In the 28th minute of the first half, while trying to pivot on the spot, Ekitike got his studs caught in the turf and immediately collapsed, clutching his right ankle. The image of the player being taken off by the medical staff without being able to put weight on his leg caused total concern both on the Reds’ bench and within the French national team’s coaching staff, who are closely monitoring every medical detail regarding one of their key players.

Although Liverpool have not yet issued an official medical report, the medical staff’s first impressions are not encouraging. While some preliminary diagnoses suggest a severe sprain, the main fear is a possible Achilles tendon rupture, an injury that would sideline him for between nine and twelve months, burying any chance of playing in the World Cup. Dutch coach Arne Slot was cautious after the match and said they would have to wait for further tests to learn the true extent of the damage.

Ekitike’s exit was not only an emotional blow, but it also ended up sealing Liverpool’s hopes in the European competition, where they ultimately fell 2-0 to Paris Saint-Germain. For the young striker, who had been establishing himself as the attacking focal point of the English side, this injury comes at the worst possible moment of his career. Pending official confirmation, the football world is anxiously awaiting the test results that will determine whether the Frenchman will be able to fulfill his dream of representing his country at the World Cup or whether he will have to face a long recovery until 2027.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.