French striker injured in the return match at Anfield, where the Reds were defeated 2-0, ending their run in the elite competition with an aggregate score of 4-0. Ekitike left the field on a stretcher after collapsing without contact, holding his right ankle and visibly suffering severe pain. After detailed examinations, the worst was confirmed: a rupture of the Achilles tendon in his right leg, one of the most serious injuries for footballers. According to reports from the French newspaper L'Équipe, the break could last up to nine months, meaning Ekitike will miss the rest of the year and likely the start of the next. Due to the length of recovery, it is almost certain he will not be available for the upcoming World Cup. The injury further impacted Liverpool, who were already disappointed by their elimination from the Champions League, and now remain without a key offensive player for an extended period.