Liverpool's Ekitike major doubt for Arsenal clash with muscle injury
Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike is likely to miss Thursday's Premier League trip to Arsenal after struggling with a muscle problem that kept him out of the 2-2 draw with Fulham last weekend. The Frenchman is now a major doubt for the heavyweight clash against league leaders Arsenal.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot confirmed Ekitike hasn't trained with the squad since the Fulham match. "He has not trained with us till now – let's see if he can today," Slot told reporters on Wednesday. "I said two days ago before Fulham that he will not be out for long, but as the games come so fast, he is in between training with the team, or it may take him a few days extra."
The injury setback comes at a critical time for Liverpool, who travel to the Emirates Stadium 14 points behind Arsenal in the Premier League table. Arsenal currently lead the league, making this fixture pivotal for Liverpool's title aspirations despite the gap.
With Ekitike sidelined, Liverpool's attacking options are further depleted as they face the league's tightest defense. The Reds will need to rely on alternative forward choices to break down Arsenal's backline in what promises to be a crucial match for both teams' seasonal ambitions.