Hugo Ekitike Injury Update from Arne Slot Ahead of Arsenal vs Liverpool

Liverpool manager Arne Slot provided an update on striker Hugo Ekitike's hamstring injury ahead of Thursday's crucial Premier League clash against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. The 23-year-old French forward, Liverpool's top scorer this season with 11 goals and additional assists across competitions, missed the Reds' 2-2 draw at Fulham last weekend due to the issue.[1][2][3][4]

Ekitike felt discomfort during the final training session before the Fulham game and traveled with the squad, but an MRI scan en route revealed more than initially hoped. Slot explained: "We were hoping it was a bit of DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness), which he also had... Unfortunately, we saw a bit more and couldn't take a risk."[2][3][5][6] The injury stems from Ekitike's heavy workload, stepping up due to Alexander Isak's long-term lower-leg absence (possible return March 2026) and other frontline issues, forcing him into unfamiliar minutes at elite level without a winter break.[3][4][5][6]

Slot remains hopeful Ekitike could return for Arsenal, describing it as a "slight hamstring injury" and a "major doubt," with a possible return date of January 8.[2][4][5] However, he's non-committal, emphasizing the risks for the young striker adapting to the Premier League's intensity.[1][3] Subtle hints from Liverpool staff, like behind-the-scenes figure Lee Nobes removing Ekitike from his Fantasy Premier League team, have fueled fan speculation on social media, though this isn't medical confirmation.[1][3]

Without Ekitike, Cody Gakpo deputized up front against Fulham, with Federico Chiesa another option, but neither fully matches his pace and finishing—vital as fourth-placed Liverpool trail leaders by 14 points.[3][4] Other absentees include Isak, Giovanni Leoni (ACL), and Wataru Endo (foot/ankle), with no suspensions.[4][5] Slot noted similar muscular strains for Florian Wirtz, who played despite concerns, highlighting the squad's festive fixture pressures.[6]

Liverpool fans are desperate for positive news, as Ekitike's availability could boost their underdog bid against Arsenal.

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