Arne Slot provides Hugo Ekitike and Liverpool injuries update as Federico Chiesa hint dropped

Arne Slot confirmed that Hugo Ekitike remains a serious doubt for Liverpool’s upcoming Premier League clash with Arsenal after the striker missed the 2-2 draw at Fulham with a muscle problem. Ekitike, Liverpool’s top scorer this season, has not trained with the team since that game, and Slot explained that the congested fixture schedule is complicating his return, leaving him “in between” being ready to rejoin full training or needing a couple more days out.

Slot also provided a broader injury update, noting that fellow forward Alexander Isak is still sidelined with a broken fibula, while Mohamed Salah is unavailable due to Africa Cup of Nations duty. This combination has left Liverpool light in attack at a key stage of the season, even as they remain on a nine-match unbeaten run in all competitions. Slot admitted that, despite the results, recent performances have drawn criticism and that the team has recorded “two draws too many,” acknowledging they are not yet where he wants them to be in terms of level and consistency.

On the subject of Federico Chiesa, Slot’s recent comments were interpreted as a subtle hint about the Italian’s evolving role. He stressed that every player has a chance to start but pointed out the competition for places in Chiesa’s positions, underlining that the winger has often been used from the bench. At the same time, Slot suggested that Chiesa can also operate as a central striker, presenting him as an alternative option through the middle when Ekitike is absent or needs to be rested. In doing so, Slot indirectly highlighted Chiesa’s importance to Liverpool’s attacking depth at a time when injuries and absences have significantly reduced his options.