The France international's season is over after he suffered a suspected Achilles injury, forcing him to withdraw from the World Cup and face a lengthy spell on the sidelines
Hugo Ekitike
Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike is set for a long spell on the sidelines(Image: Getty Images)
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Reims have sent their former player Hugo Ekitike a heartfelt message following the serious injury during Liverpool's Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. The 23-year-old had to be taken off the pitch on a stretcher with a suspected Achilles injury, and now faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
French outlets Le Parisien and L'Equipe both report that the striker has suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon in his right leg, an injury that could rule him out for up to nine months.
Taking to Instagram, the club's official account wrote: "Launched at full speed towards the World Cup, only one injury could cut your momentum... You'll come back stronger Hugo, get well soon."
Ekitike came through Reims' academy, spending a decade there before making his senior debut at 18.
He went on to score 11 goals in 28 appearances before joining PSG on loan, with an option to buy for a reported €35m (£30m).
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While Liverpool are yet to confirm the extent of his injury, France boss Didier Deschamps has confirmed he will miss the World Cup in the summer.
In a statement, Deschamps said: "Hugo suffered a serious injury on Tuesday evening against PSG.
"The severity of his injury will unfortunately prevent him from finishing the season with Liverpool and participating in the World Cup.
"Hugo is one of the dozen young players who have made their debuts with the national team in recent months.
"He had perfectly integrated into the group, both on the pitch and off it. This injury is a huge blow for him, of course, but also for the France team.
"His disappointment is immense. Hugo will regain his top form, I'm convinced of it.
"But I wanted to express all my support to him, as well as that of the entire staff. We know he'll be fully behind the France team, and we're all thinking of him very strongly."
Reports have suggested Ekitike's injury could influence Liverpool's transfer plans, while Arne Slot has also admitted his squad must overcome a 'challenge' as they prepare to move forward without Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson.