Hugo Ekitike out of World Cup with Achilles rupture as France reset forward options | OneFootball

Hugo Ekitike has ruptured his right Achilles tendon and will miss the World Cup. The Liverpool striker was stretchered off in Tuesday’s 0-2 Champions League quarter-final second leg against Paris-SG, with an MRI confirming the injury. He faces at least nine months out.

France coach Didier Deschamps said in a statement that Ekitike had integrated perfectly, called the setback immense for the player and the team, and voiced confidence he will regain his best level with full staff support.

First capped in September, he has eight appearances for France. His place had been assured thanks to his finishing, rapport with Kylian Mbappé, and ability to play centrally or from the left.

March’s squad listed nine forwards, and the 14 May announcement should match that. Michael Olise and Rayan Cherki are set as playmakers. Marcus Thuram is certain to partner Mbappé, while Bradley Barcola and Désiré Doué are in line on the left.

On the right, Ousmane Dembélé is undisputed and Maghnes Akliouche has impressed, while Florian Thauvin, Christopher Nkunku and Kingsley Coman, omitted in March, trail behind.

Ekitike’s absence could open the door for Randal Kolo Muani and Jean-Philippe Mateta. Kolo Muani, 27, brings versatility and has Deschamps’s esteem despite a difficult season at Tottenham.

Mateta, 28, has momentum after a knee injury blocked a move to AC Milan. Staying at Crystal Palace, he has scored three in two since regaining a starting place. A pure No 9, his finishing and aerial strength are valued, though Kolo Muani’s experience weighs heavy.

Source: L'Équipe