Liverpool Hugo Ekitike Injury News Update

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has delivered a crucial injury update on star striker Hugo Ekitike, revealing the forward's status ahead of the high-stakes clash with Arsenal. The 23-year-old Frenchman, Liverpool's top scorer this season, missed Sunday's dramatic 2-2 Premier League draw at Fulham due to a slight hamstring injury, confirmed by a late MRI scan.[1][2][3][5]

Ekitike's absence was a surprise, as he had started Liverpool's previous six matches in a grueling 26-day schedule, logging 1,643 minutes across all competitions—more than in his entire French club career. Slot attributed the injury to an increased workload, exacerbated by Alexander Isak's prolonged absence. The Swedish striker has been sidelined for weeks with muscular issues, culminating in a broken leg requiring surgery two weeks ago.[1][2][4]

"Alexander Isak has been out for a few weeks now. That has meant that Hugo had to play more minutes than he did throughout the whole season. That has led to... a slight hamstring injury... For a player that's his age and not used to the Premier League completely, that has been a bit too much," Slot told Sky Sports.[2]

The Dutch coach expressed hope for Ekitike's return against Arsenal on Thursday but stressed it's "definitely not sure yet." Liverpool face an injury crisis, with Florian Wirtz also nursing a minor hamstring issue after being substituted in the Fulham game, and Wataru Endo among others on the sidelines. Only summer signing Milos Kerkez has avoided the treatment room so far.[1][3][4]

Despite the setback, Cody Gakpo nearly secured victory with a 94th-minute strike at Craven Cottage, only for Harrison Reed to equalize moments later. Slot's update gives Arsenal a potential edge, but Ekitike's fitness remains the key question as Liverpool push for silverware.[3]

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