Liverpool’s Ekitike ruled out of 2026 World Cup after achilles rupture

Abdullateef Fowewe

Devastating news for France and Liverpool as striker Hugo Ekitike has been confirmed out of the 2026 World Cup after suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon in the Champions League quarter-final loss to PSG.

The 23-year-old, who joined Liverpool from PSG for around €80 million in July 2025, now faces an 8-9 month recovery timeline that ends his season and dashes his hopes of featuring for Les Bleus in the United States, Canada, and Mexico next summer.

Ekitike had been in scintillating form, recently scoring for France and cementing his status as a key squad contender.

Achilles tendon ruptures remain one of football’s most feared injuries, often requiring 9-12 months of rehab.

Players frequently struggle to regain their pre-injury burst speed and explosiveness, casting a long shadow over Ekitike’s return.

Liverpool have not issued an official statement, but the club confirmed the diagnosis on Tuesday.