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Liverpool Star Hugo Ekitike Ruled Out of 2026 World Cup After Devastating Champions League Injury
Michael Steele/Getty Images
Hugo Ekitike is set to miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering a serious Achilles tendon injury during UEFA Champions League action for Liverpool FC, dealing a major blow to both club and country.
The 23-year-old striker was stretchered off during Liverpool’s quarter-final second-leg clash against Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield after appearing to injure himself without contact. He was seen clutching his Achilles tendon as medical staff rushed to his aid, with early reports later confirming the injury as a rupture, one of the most serious setbacks a footballer can face.
The incident occurred during a difficult night for Liverpool, who lost 2-0 on the night and exited the competition with a 4-0 aggregate defeat. However, the result quickly became secondary to concerns over Ekitike’s condition, with the injury expected to sideline him for several months and rule him out of the World Cup scheduled for June and July 2026 in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Ekitike had been in impressive form prior to the injury, scoring 17 goals across all competitions since his high-profile move from Eintracht Frankfurt. His performances had earned him a growing role in the French national team, where he was widely expected to be part of the squad heading into the World Cup.
The injury is not only a personal setback for the forward but also a significant loss for France, who will now have to adjust their attacking options ahead of the tournament. For Liverpool, it adds to a challenging season already marked by inconsistency and setbacks, leaving the team short of a key attacking option in crucial fixtures.
As Ekitike begins what is likely to be a long recovery process, attention will now turn to his rehabilitation and whether he can return to peak form after such a serious injury. For now, however, the focus remains on the immediate impact—a promising season cut short and a World Cup dream put on hold.
