Liverpool will be without their star striker Hugo Ekitike for their Premier League encounter against Fulham on Sunday, January 4, 2026. Head coach Arne Slot confirmed the French forward's absence, attributing it to a minor hamstring issue.
Ekitike's Injury and Its Cause
The 23-year-old Frenchman, who has emerged as Liverpool's leading scorer this season, picked up the problem due to an increased workload. With key attackers like Mohamed Salah away at the Africa Cup of Nations and Alexander Isak sidelined long-term, Ekitike has been carrying the offensive burden.
Arne Slot pointed to the intense festive schedule and consecutive full matches against Wolves and Leeds United as contributing factors. The young striker, still adapting to the Premier League's physical demands, succumbed to the strain.
Arne Slot's Official Statement
Speaking to Sky Sports before the match, Slot provided a detailed explanation. "Isak has been out for a few weeks now, and that's meant Ekitike had to play more minutes than the previous part of the season," he stated.
"That's led to him picking up a slight hamstring injury, and for a player of his age, not completely used to the Premier League, that's been a bit too much," Slot added. The Dutch manager expressed hope for a swift return, saying, "That’s why he will be out for today, and hopefully back for the Arsenal game."
Liverpool's Squad Update for Fulham Clash
The absence of Ekitike compounds Liverpool's attacking woes. The unavailable list for the Fulham fixture includes:
- Mohamed Salah: On international duty with Egypt at AFCON.
- Alexander Isak, Giovanni Leoni, Jeremie Frimpong: All out with injuries.
- Hugo Ekitike: Not part of the matchday squad.
Joe Gomez was named among the substitutes, while Florian Wirtz earned a spot in the starting eleven. Liverpool's confirmed starting line-up was: Alisson Becker; Conor Bradley, Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk, Milos Kerkez; Ryan Gravenberch, Curtis Jones; Florian Wirtz, Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai; Cody Gakpo.
The injury comes at a critical juncture for Liverpool, who face a crucial showdown against league leaders Arsenal next. The team's ability to cope without their top scorer will be a significant test of their squad depth and title credentials.
