- Hugo Ekitike has been ruled out of the upcoming World Cup after suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon.
- The injury occurred during Liverpool's Champions League quarter-final match against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday, forcing him to be stretchered off the pitch.
- France manager Didier Deschamps confirmed it was a “serious” injury, stating it would prevent Ekitike from finishing the season and participating in the tournament.
- Deschamps expressed significant disappointment for the 23-year-old striker, who had recently integrated well into the national squad and was expected to be a key forward option.
- The injury is a major blow for Ekitike, who has earned eight caps for France and scored two goals, including one in a recent friendly against Brazil.
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