The struggling North London forward could unexpectedly feature on the biggest international stage following a devastating physical setback for a Premier League rival.
The current mood around N17 remains incredibly grim during this terrifying domestic relegation dogfight. However, some highly unexpected international news recently broke regarding a heavily scrutinized member of the senior squad. Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike suffered a devastating right Achilles tendon rupture against Paris Saint-Germain recently. The brutal injury occurred during a disappointing 2-0 defeat, and now the medical reports suggest a massive nine-month-long absence.
The 27-year-old Tottenham loanee is poised for a World Cup call-up as Liverpool star Hugo Ekitike faces a nine-month injury setback.
The 27-year-old Tottenham loanee is poised for a World Cup call-up as Liverpool star Hugo Ekitike faces a nine-month injury setback. [Image via SkySports]
This catastrophic physical setback rules the young striker out of the upcoming FIFA World Cup. The unfortunate situation suddenly opens a massive door for struggling Tottenham Hotspur loanee Randal Kolo Muani. The Paris Saint Germain owned forward has endured a completely miserable domestic campaign under Roberto De Zerbi. Supporters constantly criticize his lack of cutting edge in front of the goal.
International fortunes often ignore club form completely in modern football. Respected French publication Le Parisien claims the North London arrival is actually the clear favourite to replace his injured compatriot. France national team manager Didier Deschamps reportedly still retains absolute trust in the misfiring attacker. This immense, unwavering faith could prove absolutely crucial for his immediate international summer plans despite his terrible club form.
Les mots du sélectionneur Didier Deschamps pour Hugo Ekitiké 🙏
« Hugo s’est sérieusement blessé, mardi soir, contre le PSG. La gravité de sa blessure va malheureusement l’empêcher de terminer la saison avec Liverpool et de participer à la Coupe du Monde.
Hugo fait partie de… pic.twitter.com/Z6nWLhIgs7
— Equipe de France ⭐⭐ (@equipedefrance) April 15, 2026
Christopher Nkunku and Jean Philippe Mateta might challenge struggling Tottenham forward Randal Kolo Muani for final World Cup spot
Earning that final precious ticket to the major tournament will not be entirely straightforward today. The Lilywhites’ loanee faces serious competition from two other prominent European names. AC Milan playmaker Christopher Nkunku is reportedly firmly in the reckoning following a very decent season in Italy. The creative midfielder always offers a completely different tactical dimension for the entire national setup.
🚨 Le forfait d’Ekitike profite à Kolo Muani ! 🇫🇷🔄
Le forfait d’Hugo Ekitike pour la Coupe du monde pourrait redistribuer les cartes… 👀
Randal Kolo Muani apparaît désormais comme le grand favori pour prendre sa place 🇫🇷
💬 Votre avis ? 🤔#EquipeDeFrance #KoloMuani… pic.twitter.com/iad0w4BWhv
— Foot Passion (@footpassionfrr) April 15, 2026
Crystal Palace striker Jean Philippe Mateta provides another incredibly viable alternative. The physical target man has looked genuinely lethal during his brief international cameos. He previously netted twice across just three senior appearances for Les Bleus. Earning a major tournament call up might finally inject some desperate confidence into the misfiring Spurs attacker ahead of a vital relegation run in. The passionate N17 faithful desperately need him to score goals immediately.