Particle.news
Download on the App Store
39 ARTICLES
·
1h ago

Arne Slot Confirms ACL Tear for Giovanni Leoni With Yearlong Layoff

The long-term absence leaves Liverpool relying on three senior centre-backs across a congested schedule.

Soccer Football - Carabao Cup - Third Round - Liverpool v Southampton - Anfield, Liverpool, Britain - September 23, 2025 Liverpool's Giovanni Leoni reacts as he is stretchered off after sustaining an injury as manager Arne Slot looks on REUTERS/Phil Noble
Image
Soccer Football - Carabao Cup - Third Round - Liverpool v Southampton - Anfield, Liverpool, Britain - September 23, 2025 Liverpool's Giovanni Leoni in action REUTERS/Phil Noble
Image

Overview

  • The 18-year-old was stretchered off 81 minutes into his debut in Tuesday’s 2-1 Carabao Cup win over Southampton after landing awkwardly in a tackle.
  • Medical assessments confirmed a torn anterior cruciate ligament, with Slot saying tests indicate he will be sidelined for around 12 months.
  • Liverpool have added Federico Chiesa to their Champions League squad in Leoni’s place under UEFA provisions for long-term injuries.
  • His injury leaves Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté and Joe Gomez as the only recognised senior centre-backs, though Slot said he has cover options.
  • The blow has refocused attention on defensive depth after a deadline‑day bid for Marc Guéhi fell through, with any January move discussed as a potential route rather than a commitment.