Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike faces a lengthy recovery of up to nine months after rupturing his Achilles tendon during a Champions League quarter-final match against Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield. The injury occurred in the 28th minute, with Ekitike collapsing without contact from an opponent, leading to his substitution by Mohamed Salah. This injury not only sidelines him for the remainder of the current season but also significantly impacts his chances of participating in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. Ekitike had previously scored for France in a victory over Brazil in March, making him a likely candidate for the national squad. Liverpool manager Arne Slot expressed his concern, stating, “Hugo looks really bad,” and emphasized the need for further investigation. Ekitike's absence is a major blow for Liverpool, as he has been a standout performer this season with 17 goals in 45 appearances since joining from Eintracht Frankfurt for €95 million.