Liverpool faced a significant setback this evening, losing not only to PSG but also suffering an injury to Hugo Ekitike.
Entering the match, Liverpool aimed to overcome a 2-0 deficit but things worsened in the 28th minute.
The injury appeared serious as Ekitike fell while sprinting, raising concerns about his Achilles tendon.
As he was carried off on a stretcher at Anfield, uncertainty grew beyond just the match outcome.
While details about the injury’s severity will soon emerge, questions are now being raised regarding the rest of his season with Liverpool and his chances for the 2026 World Cup with France.
Achilles injuries can take months to heal, meaning fans might not see the 23-year-old on the field again until next season.
Liverpool ultimately lost 2-0, totaling a 4-0 defeat on aggregate, and this may not be the only challenge for the club.
Ekitike Injury Boosts Manchester United‘s Top-Five Pursuit
Hugo Ekitike has been Liverpool’s leading scorer this season, netting 17 goals in 44 matches across all competitions, with Dominic Szoboszlai in second place with 12 goals in 46 games.
With the striker now sidelined, Liverpool faces an uphill battle to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
Currently, Manchester United, Aston Villa, Liverpool, Chelsea, Brentford, and Everton are all competing for a top-five finish to secure a spot in the next season’s competition.
United and Villa sit third and fourth with 55 points, while Liverpool trails in fifth with 52 points.
United had an opportunity to strengthen their position in the race with a win over Leeds United this weekend, having occupied third place since early March after defeating Crystal Palace.
However, Leeds prevailed with a solid 2-1 victory at Old Trafford, allowing Villa to close the gap.
Consequently, Ekitike’s injury could significantly aid Manchester United in their quest for Champions League qualification, making it more difficult for Liverpool to maintain their spot in the top five.
Meanwhile, Arne Slot’s side has renewed focus, as Premier League qualification remains their only path to European football next season.