French striker Hugo Ekitike’s injury is more serious than initially thought.
Details: Leading ankle surgery expert Nicolas Baudrier reviewed the incident and concluded with 90% certainty that Ekitike has a ruptured Achilles tendon. This injury requires surgery, effectively ending the player’s hopes for the rest of the year.
Ekitike will miss the entire season, with recovery projected to take 9 to 12 months. This timeline raises concerns about his participation in preseason activities and much of the upcoming campaign.
The most significant impact for the 23-year-old forward is his absence from the World Cup.
“If it is indeed an Achilles rupture, then the World Cup is over for him,” Baudrier noted.
The expert highlighted that even with optimal rehabilitation, a professional athlete typically needs at least nine months to return to play.
Given the World Cup schedule in 2026, Ekitike is unlikely to recover in time for the tournament.
Reminder: Jürgen Klopp is in discussions with Galatasaray.