Iraola Sparks Optimism With Promising Update on Hugo Ekitike's Injury Comeback

Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola has shared that the club are optimistic about welcoming striker Hugo Ekitiké back to the pitch before the end of January 2027.

Ekitiké had been enjoying a stunning debut season with Liverpool before suffering a serious Achilles tendon injury in April, with his rehabilitation projected to extend well into next year. The French forward wrapped up his first campaign with 17 goals and six assists across 45 appearances.

Given the circumstances, it raised considerable eyebrows when Ekitiké was named in Liverpool's Champions League squad for the league phase—especially with both Federico Chiesa and Wataru Endō being omitted to make room—but Iraola maintained there was sound reasoning behind the call.