Arne Slot provides Hugo Ekitike injury update and makes Liverpool promise

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Liverpool manager Arne Slot has issued an update on Hugo Ekitike’s fitness as the forward races to recover from a hamstring problem ahead of the Premier League clash with Arsenal. Ekitike, in prolific form with five goals in his last five outings, missed the recent 2-2 draw at Fulham after feeling discomfort that was later confirmed as more than simple muscle soreness. Slot explained that the Frenchman has still not trained with the team and remains in a delicate stage of his recovery, describing him as being “in between” joining full training and needing a couple more days.

Despite that caution, Slot stressed that Ekitike’s layoff is not expected to be long term and indicated that Liverpool will “do everything” to have him back as soon as possible, particularly with a busy schedule and key fixtures looming. The manager admitted that the striker’s recent workload, amplified by other absences in attack, likely contributed to the setback. In Ekitike’s absence, Cody Gakpo stepped up to lead the line and scored late against Fulham, but Liverpool were ultimately denied victory by a stoppage‑time equaliser.

The uncertainty over Ekitike comes at a difficult moment for Liverpool, who are already without several senior players. Alexander Isak and Giovanni Leoni are sidelined, Wataru Endo is still working his way back from an ankle injury, and Mohamed Salah remains away on Africa Cup of Nations duty. Slot acknowledged that these issues have left the squad stretched and have affected fluency and entertainment value in performances.

However, he also underlined his belief that beating league leaders Arsenal would be a significant statement and could transform the mood around the club. Slot promised that Liverpool will be fully prepared and competitive regardless of injuries, insisting that his side can still challenge strongly in the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League if they navigate this testing period and manage Ekitike’s return wisely.