The 23-year-old French international collapsed on the ground Tuesday evening in the 28th minute of the quarterfinal, immediately holding the back of his right ankle. He left the field in tears on a stretcher after being unable to get up despite several attempts.
The player underwent examinations on Wednesday, which confirmed a rupture of the Achilles tendon, according to a statement by Liverpool, who did not specify the duration of his unavailability for such a serious injury that could extend for several months.
“It’s tough, maybe even unfair… But I am grateful that this happened here, among you. I am not alone. Your strength and love will be my driving force. See you soon at Anfield,” the player reacted on his Instagram account.
The forward is now ruled out for the rest of Liverpool’s season and also for the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada starting in less than two months (June 11-July 19), a decision confirmed by the French national team coach Didier Deschamps on Wednesday.
Deschamps described it as “a huge blow for him, obviously, but also for the French team,” and many of the forward’s teammates in the squad, including captain Kylian Mbappé, posted supportive messages on their social media.
The former AS Roma player, who struggled during his time at Paris Saint-Germain, has found success at Liverpool, where he has shined since his arrival (17 goals and six assists in 45 matches).
In eight appearances since his debut for France in September 2025, Ekitike had impressed to be a potential candidate for the World Cup squad, which Deschamps will announce on May 14.
He particularly stood out during the international window in March, scoring a goal against Brazil (2-1) in a friendly match during the French team’s American tour.
