Hugo Ekitike called the ruptured Achilles tendon that ended a first World Cup chance unfair, after the Liverpool and France forward saw hopes of playing in North America this summer disappear following injury in the Champions League defeat to Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield.

The 23-year-old had been a key part of Liverpool’s attack in a debut campaign, scoring 17 goals and supplying six assists in all competitions, and Ekitike’s long absence now threatens the Reds’ push for a top-five Premier League finish, despite Alexander Isak recently returning from a leg fracture.

The France Football Federation stated on Wednesday that Ekitike would miss the upcoming World Cup tournament in North America, with the forward’s injury occurring during Tuesday’s 2-0 Champions League loss to Paris Saint-Germain, ending international tournament plans that had appeared likely after a strong club season.

Ekitike went down in the first half at Anfield without contact from any nearby players, looking distressed as medical staff treated the forward on the pitch before a stretcher was required, and Liverpool later confirmed a ruptured Achilles tendon, with initial reports indicating at least nine months on the sidelines.

Posting a picture while seated on the Anfield turf, Ekitike addressed supporters on X with an emotional message, writing: “It’s hard, maybe even unfair But I’m grateful this is happening to me here, among you. I’m not alone. Your strength and your love will be my driving force. See you again soon, Anfield.”

Ekitike’s injury removes a leading scorer from Liverpool’s squad for the rest of the campaign and deprives France of a forward in strong form, leaving both club and country to adjust attacking plans while the player begins a long rehabilitation that is expected to last most of the next year.