Liverpool Rocked as Teen Sensation Giovani Leoni Suffers Serious Injury on Debut
Liverpool were dealt a devastating setback last night when 18-year-old defender Giovani Leoni, signed from Parma this summer for £26 million, suffered what appears to be a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during his debut in the Carabao Cup clash against Southampton.
Leoni had been impressing on the night, looking composed and confident, before collapsing to the turf in the 81st minute. The atmosphere at Anfield turned somber as he was stretchered off, with Liverpool’s medical staff immediately fearing the worst. The Italian teenager later admitted he felt something was “suddenly wrong,” though the exact diagnosis will only be confirmed once swelling eases and MRI scans are completed.
🇻🇳 Liverpool nhận cú sốc chấn thương từ tân binh 18 tuổi.
Fixture Headache for Slot
For manager Arne Slot, the timing could not be worse. Already juggling a congested schedule, he now faces the challenge of reshuffling his defensive options. With Hugo Ekitike suspended and Leoni likely sidelined, Liverpool must head into a crucial away trip to Crystal Palace with a patched-up backline.
Chiesa’s Redemption Arc?
Amid the disappointment, there was a glimmer of hope. Federico Chiesa, who had recently fallen out of favor and was even omitted from Liverpool’s Champions League squad, delivered a standout performance against Southampton. The Italian winger provided two assists and displayed the kind of hunger and grit that could force Slot to reconsider his role in the squad.
What Next?
All eyes now turn to the medical update on Leoni, whose setback could drastically affect Liverpool’s defensive stability. Meanwhile, supporters and pundits alike are left asking: can Chiesa—or another squad member—step up to fill the void?
For a club chasing silverware on multiple fronts, the stakes have rarely felt higher.
