Arne Slot outlines Hugo Ekitike injury hope and conversation with Federico Chiesa

Liverpool boss Arne Slot has provided a positive update on Hugo Ekitike, expressing hope the striker will be available again soon after a minor hamstring issue. The French forward, Liverpool’s top scorer in a difficult season, recently missed games following muscle fatigue brought on by an intense run of starts at Premier League and Champions League level without a winter break. Slot explained that Ekitike has been pushed to play 80–90 minutes every match since Alexander Isak’s injury, making his slight setback unsurprising. The club’s medical checks, including scans, indicated no serious damage, and Slot suggested the focus is now on managing his workload to avoid longer-term problems.

Slot also discussed his conversations with Federico Chiesa, who has found opportunities limited despite the absence of Mohamed Salah due to international duty. Although many expected the Italian to feature more, Chiesa himself reportedly told Slot he has played more minutes in recent weeks than at any previous point under the Dutch coach. Slot emphasized that Chiesa remains an important option in attack and could see further involvement as rotation becomes essential amid injuries and fixture congestion.

The article frames these updates within Liverpool’s broader attacking dilemma. With Salah away and Isak sidelined, Ekitike’s fitness is crucial to maintaining a cutting edge up front. Slot is attempting to balance short-term needs with long-term player welfare, cautiously optimistic about Ekitike’s return while publicly reinforcing his trust in Chiesa. Together, the injury news and Slot’s comments underline his pragmatic approach: manage Ekitike carefully, keep Chiesa engaged and ready, and rely on squad depth to navigate a challenging period without overburdening key forwards.