Arne Slot Delivers Hugo Ekitike Liverpool Injury Update Ahead of Arsenal Clash

By Mirror Sport Reporter | Published January 7, 2026

In a crucial pre-match press conference ahead of Liverpool's high-stakes Premier League showdown with Arsenal at Anfield, Reds manager Arne Slot provided a positive injury update on new signing Hugo Ekitike. The French forward, who joined from Eintracht Frankfurt in a £30m deal during the January transfer window, had raised concerns after limping off during his debut against Manchester United last weekend.

Slot confirmed that Ekitike's issue is not as severe as initially feared. "Hugo felt some discomfort in his hamstring, but scans have shown it's just a minor strain," the Dutch coach revealed. "He's been training lightly today and will do individual sessions tomorrow. We're optimistic he could be on the bench for Arsenal if there's no setback."

The 23-year-old Ekitike has already made an impact, scoring in his cameo debut and adding dynamism to Liverpool's attack amid injuries to Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez. Slot praised the striker's versatility: "He can play across the front line, which gives us options against Arsenal's solid defense. But we won't rush him—player welfare comes first."

Liverpool sit top of the table, three points clear of Arsenal, making this fixture a potential title-decider. Slot dismissed any mind games from Gunners boss Mikel Arteta, who questioned Liverpool's squad depth. "We're focused on us. With or without Hugo at full strength, we'll give everything."

Fans reacted positively on social media, with #Ekitike trending. One supporter tweeted: "Massive boost! Slot's rotation keeping us fresh." Initial medical reports suggested a three-week absence, but Slot's update halves that timeline, boosting Liverpool's hopes of maintaining their unbeaten run.

The match kicks off at 8pm GMT tomorrow, broadcast live on Sky Sports.

Key Takeaways:

• Ekitike: Minor hamstring strain, possible bench role vs Arsenal.
• Liverpool top Premier League; Arsenal trail by 3 points.
• Slot emphasizes caution but remains confident.

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