Hugo Ekitike a Major Doubt for Liverpool Against Arsenal

Liverpool face a crucial Premier League clash against leaders Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday, but key striker Hugo Ekitike remains a major doubt due to injury concerns[1][3][5].

The 23-year-old French forward, Liverpool's top scorer this season, missed Sunday's 2-2 draw at Fulham due to delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), a minor muscle issue that has prevented full training[3][5]. Manager Arne Slot confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Ekitike "has not trained with us until now" and will undergo a late fitness test on Wednesday to determine his availability[1][3][4]. "Let's see if he can train with us today," Slot said, noting the packed schedule complicates recovery: "I said he wouldn't be out for long, but games come so fast—he might need one or two extra days."[1][3][5]

Ekitike's absence adds to Liverpool's challenges, with striker Alexander Isak sidelined by a broken fibula and Mohamed Salah away at the Africa Cup of Nations[3]. The Reds sit fourth in the table, unbeaten in nine games across all competitions, but Slot admits inconsistency has led to too many draws, including recent stalemates[3][4]. "We've had impressive wins but also unimpressive draws and losses—the talent is there, but consistency isn't," he reflected[3].

Slot views the Arsenal match as pivotal: a win over the "complete package" Gunners could spark a turnaround and close the gap at the top, while emphasizing Liverpool's multi-front campaign in the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League[1][4]. Time is critical at the AXA Training Centre as staff monitor Ekitike's progress ahead of this high-stakes north London showdown[1][4].

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