Liverpool's Leoni Suffers ACL Tear, Faces Long Layoff
Last update: September 24, 2025
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18-year-old Giovanni Leoni was forced off on debut against Southampton and is likely out for rest of the season.
Liverpool defender Giovanni Leoni is facing months on the sidelines after suffering a suspected anterior cruciate ligament injury during his debut appearance.
The 18-year-old lasted 81 minutes of Tuesday’s 2–1 Carabao Cup third-round win over Southampton before being forced off. Leoni, a summer signing from Parma for £26 million plus add-ons, has since undergone tests on his left knee.
Sources suggest the centre-back has damaged his ACL an injury likely to rule him out for most, if not all, of the remainder of the season.
Leoni’s absence leaves Slot with just three recognised centre-backs: Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, and Joe Gomez.
CBI News reports that Liverpool can name a replacement for Leoni in their Champions League squad, with forward Federico Chiesa reportedly under consideration.
The injury comes as the defending Premier League champions maintain a perfect start, having won all five of their league matches this season.
