Injured and ruled out, Ekitike could still join France at 2026 World Cup

Hugo Ekitike will not play in the 2026 World Cup with France, but the Liverpool striker could still make the trip to support his teammates, according to L’Équipe.

The former Reims player ruptured his right Achilles tendon in April during the Champions League quarter-final second leg against PSG. A serious injury that abruptly ended his hopes of playing in his first major international tournament, after he had participated in the preparation camp in March in the United States — including a friendly match against Brazil (2-1) where he made an impression.

According to L’Équipe, Ekitike intends to join Didier Deschamps’ squad during the tournament for a few days, to soak in the event and encourage his teammates. A break that would also allow him to decompress mentally before resuming his long recovery.

Recovery timelines remain significant. The player’s entourage is considering a return to training in autumn 2026, and a competitive return with Liverpool no earlier than the end of the calendar year, if the process goes smoothly.

France begin their campaign on Tuesday against Senegal in their first group stage match.