Giovanni Leoni’s Liverpool career has suffered a major blow after the teenage defender sustained a serious knee problem in his first outing for the club.
The 18-year-old was handed a starting role in Tuesday’s Carabao Cup third-round clash against Southampton, lasting until the 81st minute of the 2-1 win before being substituted with a suspected ligament issue.
Signed from Parma in August for a deal worth £26m plus bonuses, the centre-half has since undergone scans on his left knee to confirm the extent of the problem.
Suspected ACL damage
Initial results suggest the youngster has torn his anterior cruciate ligament, which is likely to rule him out for several months and possibly for the remainder of the campaign.
Such an injury would mark a huge setback in what had been a dream move to England for the Italy youth international.
Leoni himself addressed supporters on social media, admitting his frustration but promising to work tirelessly to return.
Message to fans
“I want to sincerely thank every single person who has shown me support in this difficult moment,” he posted on Instagram.
“It wasn’t the debut I had always dreamed of, but I will give everything to be back playing in this magical stadium as soon as possible. Thank you so much!”
His words reflect the disappointment of a player who had been eager to make a lasting first impression at Anfield.
Slot faces defensive shortage
With Leoni sidelined, head coach Arne Slot is left with only Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté and Joe Gomez as fit central defenders.
Speaking after the tie, Slot suggested the seriousness of the incident was clear from the player’s reaction. “He is down because, for him, it didn’t feel good immediately. Normally the emotions of a player tell you a lot,” the manager noted.
Squad adjustments possible
Liverpool retain the option to alter their Champions League list, with forward Federico Chiesa among those who could be drafted in as Leoni’s replacement.
Despite the setback, the team have begun their league campaign flawlessly, winning all five of their opening fixtures as they look to defend their domestic crown.