Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike responded after France named him in their latest national squad, despite his injury in the Champions League defeat to Galatasaray.
The 23-year-old, who has impressed with five goals and one assist in nine games this season, but he hobbled off after 68 mins of Tuesday’s 3-1 loss in Istanbul. Ekitike had only recently returned from suspension following the 2-1 Premier League loss to Crystal Palace.
Slot confirms doubts for Chelsea clash
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot confirmed that Ekitike remains a doubt for Saturday’s trip to Chelsea. “He said he couldn’t continue so we had to take him off. Let’s see how he is for the weekend,” Slot told reporters.
Despite concerns, France still called up Ekitike for the World Cup qualifiers against Azerbaijan on Friday, October 10, and Iceland on Monday, October 13. This is his second senior call-up. Soon after the announcement, the striker reacted by sharing France’s official post to his Instagram story.
Also included in Didier Deschamps’ squad is Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate, while Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta has earned his first senior selection.
Alisson ruled out, shares update
Alisson Becker left the pitch against Galatasaray with a suspected hamstring issue, deepening Liverpool’s injury worries. Slot confirmed the Brazilian goalkeeper will miss the Chelsea game: “If my player is on the floor, nine out of 10 times I fear the worst… you can be sure he is not playing Saturday.”
Alisson later posted images from the match on Instagram, but Brazil left him out of the squad for two October friendlies, calling up Fenerbahce’s Ederson, Al Nassr’s Bento, and Hugo Souza of Corinthians instead.
Author’s Opinion
Ekitike’s inclusion in the France squad suggests optimism around his condition, but Liverpool cannot afford further setbacks as injuries pile up. With Alisson confirmed out, Slot faces a crucial balancing act ahead of Chelsea — one that could shape Liverpool’s momentum in both domestic and European competitions.
As featured on Walkon.com
