Hugo Ekitike faces a long road to recovery after rupturing his Achilles, with one expert warning that the Liverpool striker's comeback may take longer than is expected
15:08, 12 Jul 2026
LONDON, ENGLAND - JULY 10: Hugo Ekitike during day twelve of the 2026 Wimbledon Tennis Championships at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 10, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage)
Hugo Ekitike is set to miss a large chunk of next season for Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)
Liverpool has been warned that Hugo Ekitike’s recovery could take ‘longer than people expect’ as the striker aims to return before the end of the year.
Ekitike is set to miss a large chunk of next season, having ruptured his Achilles against Paris Saint-Germain back in April. The 23-year-old was cruelly robbed of an expected spot in France’s World Cup squad as a result, and there is no set return date for him at this stage.
Having undergone surgery, Ekitike has been working on his rehab, and has been seen using a cane to help him walk after making an appearance at Wimbledon.
According to reports earlier this summer, Ekitike is aiming to return for Liverpool during the festive period, with the Frenchman having spent the summer in Los Angeles working with physio Berengar Buschmann before returning to Merseyside.
Speaking to The Athletic though, Dr Andrew J. Elliott - a foot and ankle surgeon who works with the consultant on Ekitike’s surgery, Dr Martin O’Malley - has warned that the recovery process could go on longer as he outlined Ekitike’s next steps.
“Soon, he may be able to start on an anti-gravity treadmill, walking and possibly light jogging,” Dr Elliott said.
Hugo Ekitike winces in pain
Hugo Ekitike had to undergo surgery after rupturing his Achilles(Image: Getty Images)
“Recovery can often be a longer process than people expect.
“Following physical therapy guidance is essential as pushing too fast and too soon could stretch out the Achilles, leading to permanent weakness or the risk of a re-rupture.
“Leaning on trainers and care teams, taking advice from others who have gone through it, and trusting the recovery timeline is so important.
“The focus must be on progress rather than what they can’t do yet.”
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Ekitike was spotted back at the AXA Training Centre last week as he continues his recovery, although it will be long time before he’s able to join in regular training with the rest of his teammates, who will begin pre-season on July 14.
Opening up on the disappointment of missing out on the World Cup, Ekitike told GQ: "Obviously I'm in touch with them (the France squad) but not a lot because they're busy playing and I'm busy with my recovery.
“I wish I was there, but that's life. I am where I am, and sometimes everybody has to deal with stuff.
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"That's my challenge and I accepted it so I’m happy for them and I hope they're going to reach the final, win it, and bring the cup back to France.”