Hugo Ekitike set to return to Liverpool squad earlier than expected in huge injury update

Hugo Ekitike set to return to Liverpool squad earlier than expected in huge injury update

Liverpool striker Hugo Ekitike is set to return earlier than expected in what is a major boost for manager Andoni Iraola.

Ekitike ruptured his Achilles attempting a sprint in the 2-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain on April 14th and was handed an estimated recovery time of nine months meaning he could return between January 2027 and April 2027.

However, in what is a huge twist, L’Equipe now report that the Frenchman is targeting a return to training in autumn with a view to playing again for Liverpool on December 26th.

The 23-year-old underwent a successful operation in London days after the injury and was seen on crutches on the final day of the campaign against Brentford as fans feared the worst.

L’Equipe adds that Ekitike could meet up with his France teammates in the coming weeks as they continue fighting for the World Cup across the pond without him.

France coach Didier Deschamps said the injury was a “huge blow” especially after the striker had scored for France in a 2-1 win against Brazil just weeks before the injury occured.

Ekitike had scored 17 goals in all competitions before the injury struck and if he can join Alexander Isak in attack in December it would hand Iraola a big advantage heading into the second half of the season.

At just 23 years old, Ekitike has a very bright future and Liverpool will make sure he is not forced back before he is ready as to not risk any further complications.