Image Credits: Imago Images
Hugo Ekitike has taken to social media to release a statement after his Achilles tendon rupture was confirmed by the club.
The 23-year-old suffered the injury during Liverpool’s Champions League second leg clash against PSG, forcing him off the pitch in tears. The injury is expected to keep him sidelined for up to nine months, effectively ruling him out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico
The Frenchman’s injury was officially confirmed by the club this Thursday.
Now posting on Instagram, Ekitike said:
“It’s hard, maybe even unfair… but I’m grateful this is happening to me here, among you. I’m not alone. Your strength and your love will be my driving force. See you again soon, Anfield”
PSG star Desire Doue has already commented:
“Strength to you my brother, you’ll come back even better! May God be with you.”
France manager Didier Deschamps likewise confirmed that the 23-year-old will miss the World Cup on Wednesday evening:
“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,” confirmed Deschamps.
“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.”