Giovanni Leoni Suffers ACL Tear on Impressive Liverpool Debut

Liverpool's Leoni to miss several months with serious knee injury

Liverpool defender Giovanni Leoni suffers ACL injury on impressive debut, he's ruled out for 9 months. Read more.

“If a player goes off like that, it is normally not a good sign... Let's hope for the best...” 

Liverpool defender Giovanni Leoni has suffered a torn ACL, which could keep him sidelined for around nine months. This is a huge blow to the club, especially since Leoni was impressing many supporters with his strength and agility at the back. The injury occurred during the Reds' 2-1 win over Southampton in the Carabao Cup at Anfield on Tuesday.

According to Fabrizio Romano, “Liverpool centre back Giovanni Leoni has torn his ACL and will be out for several months. After excellent debut in League Cup last night with also Arne Slot very happy, an unlucky injury for Leoni who will try to be back before the end of the season.” Romano's update confirms that Leoni's absence will be felt for a significant part of the season.

The injury has left manager Arne Slot with a tough task in reshuffling his side, with only three senior centre-backs available: Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, and Joe Gomez. Slot commented on Leoni's injury, saying, “If a player goes off like that, it is normally not a good sign... Let's hope for the best.” Leoni's impressive debut performance, where he won all his aerial duels and registered six clearances alongside three interceptions, has now been cruelly interrupted by this serious setback.

🚨⚠️ Liverpool centre back Giovanni Leoni has torn his ACL and will be out for several months.

After excellent debut in League Cup last night with also Arne Slot very happy, an unlucky injury for Leoni who will try to be back before the end of the season. pic.twitter.com/TWFvj5jKfY

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 24, 2025

“After an excellent debut in the League Cup last night, with Arne Slot also very happy, an unlucky injury for Leoni, who will try to be back before the end of the season.”

Liverpool defender Giovanni Leoni's injury looks serious. He was stretchered off the pitch during the Carabao Cup match against Southampton, leaving the Anfield crowd disappointed. However, there's a silver lining - UEFA allows clubs to make one change to their Champions League squad if a player is ruled out for at least 60 days due to injury or illness.

🚨🇮🇹 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 | Liverpool defender Giovanni Leoni (18) has torn his ACL and will be out of action for several months, reports @FabrizioRomano. 🏥❌

Speedy recovery to him. 🙏❤️ pic.twitter.com/3fQ1AD2BJj

— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) September 24, 2025

 

Given Leoni's confirmed ACL tear that will keep him sidelined for several months, Liverpool can replace him in their Champions League squad. Manager Arne Slot might bring in Federico Chiesa, who has impressed with his recent performances. Chiesa could be a suitable replacement, potentially stepping into Leoni's spot in the squad.

Possible Impact on Liverpool's Squad:

• Defensive Options: With Leoni out, Slot will rely heavily on Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, and Joe Gomez.

• Champions League Squad: Federico Chiesa might join the squad, replacing Leoni.

• Upcoming Matches: Liverpool faces Crystal Palace on Saturday, and Slot will need to adjust his lineup accordingly.