Ekitike's rehab surge gives Liverpool a boost ahead of pre‑season

Liverpool’s pre‑season preparations received a welcome lift as 24‑year‑old striker Hugo Ekitike showed clear signs of progress in his Achilles rehabilitation. The French forward, who suffered the injury during the club’s Champions League exit against Paris Saint‑Germain, appears on track for a possible Christmas return.

The injury initially projected a nine‑month lay‑off, which would have pushed a comeback to the end of 2026. More recent optimism suggests a return could be possible around Christmas, according to the latest updates.

Ekitike has been training in California under physiotherapist Berengar Buschmann, a professional with whom he has an established relationship. His regimen includes ball drills, aquatic aerobics and weight‑bearing exercises aimed at rebuilding Achilles strength.

Video from Los Angeles shows the forward grimacing during the demanding session, underscoring the harsh nature of the rehabilitation stage. The footage offers encouragement to Liverpool supporters eager to see the striker back in action.

The player is expected to travel back to Merseyside later this month for further work with Liverpool’s medical staff at the AXA Training Centre. The club plans to adopt a measured approach rather than rush his return.

Ekitike finished last season as Liverpool’s top scorer and was the summer signing who adapted quickest to life at Anfield. His absence leaves a sizeable gap, placing additional pressure on Alexander Isak to deliver goals and maintain fitness.

Isak displayed durability by featuring in almost all of Sweden’s World Cup campaign before their round‑of‑32 elimination by France. Liverpool will hope that level of consistency carries over into the domestic season.

Long‑term Achilles injuries rarely allow players to resume at peak sharpness immediately, especially for a striker reliant on movement and acceleration. For now, the focus remains on incremental progress, and each successful session brings Liverpool a step closer to restoring its attacking firepower.