While the player is not expected to return to competitive action until 2027, the coach highlighted the importance the former PSG man had gained in his tactical setup. With eight caps and two goals,Ekitike was establishing himself as a serious option for the French frontline. Deschamps remains convinced that the young talent will overcome this ordeal:
"Hugo will return to his best level, I am certain of it. But I wanted to show him all my support, as well as that of the entire staff. We know he will be fully behind the French team, and we are all thinking of him very much," Deschamps added.