Hugo Ekitake's Injury Update: Liverpool Brace for Delayed Return

**Hugo Ekitake**'s injury update landed on 20 June 2026, confirming the French forward still relies on crutches and that a Boxing Day return is far from guaranteed. Liverpool cannot count on his availability for the first months of the new campaign.

Ekitake suffered a severe setback in the Champions League clash against Paris Saint‑Germain, an injury that ended his season and forced him out of France’s 2026 World Cup squad. Journalist Paul Gorst revealed on *The Blood Red* podcast that the player is still using crutches in June, despite rumors of a Boxing Day target date. The report stresses that the specific deadline is “strangely specific” and not a firm commitment.

Liverpool entered the summer window needing depth after Mohamed Salah’s departure. Ekitake’s absence removes a versatile forward who offered sharp movement and reliable link‑play last season. With the French striker unavailable, the club has already secured Victor Munoz, a flexible attacker from CA Osasuna, and continues to monitor Yan Diomande, who can cover both flanks. These moves aim to fill the void Ekitake leaves in rotation and to protect the title challenge from unexpected setbacks.

Gorst noted that a Boxing Day return is merely a hopeful scenario; the player’s recovery could extend well beyond that date. Liverpool must therefore plan for several months without Ekitake, treating him as a long‑term project rather than an immediate option. If he does manage a comeback around 26 December 2026, it will still be a limited contribution before the season’s crucial phases.

The club’s strategy now hinges on integrating new signings while monitoring Ekitake’s rehabilitation progress. Until the forward can train without crutches, Liverpool’s attack will rely on the depth provided by Munoz, Diomande, and existing squad members.