Liverpool’s promising 18-year-old centre-back, Giovanni Leoni, has sustained a torn ACL during his debut in the Carabao Cup against Southampton, sidelining him for the remainder of the 2025–26 season.
The injury occurred in the 81st minute when Leoni fell awkwardly after a challenge, leading to his immediate substitution. Manager Arne Slot expressed concern, noting Leoni’s distress and the need for further medical assessment.
Leoni, who joined Liverpool from Parma for £26 million, had been hailed as a future leader in defence.
His absence leaves Liverpool with limited options at centre-back, potentially prompting the club to revisit transfer targets to bolster their defensive lineup.