Arne Slot admits long-term absence as Reds eye Champions League adjustment
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Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has confirmed that young defender Giovanni Leoni will be sidelined for approximately one year after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during Liverpool's Carabao Cup victory over Southampton. Leoni, a recent summer signing from Serie A club Parma, was forced off on a stretcher late in the game and is now facing a long recovery period.
Slot expressed sympathy over the injury’s timing, especially since Leoni had been performing impressively in his debut for the club. “Being so young and coming to a new country and playing so well in your first game, it’s very hard to take the positives,” Slot remarked, noting the difficulty of the situation. However, he remained hopeful, highlighting Leoni's youth and potential for a full recovery and many playing years ahead.
Following Leoni's ACL injury, Liverpool has made changes to their Champions League squad. Federico Chiesa, initially excluded from the squad, has been registered as Leoni's replacement. Chiesa, who has made a strong start to the season with one goal and two assists in five appearances, was named in Liverpool’s Champions League squad in place of Leoni. Slot confirmed that Liverpool is actively pursuing the administrative process to finalize this squad adjustment.
Chiesa’s contract with Liverpool extends until June 2028, and the club appears confident in his ongoing role. The winger's early-season form has provided optimism amidst Leoni’s setback.
In summary, Liverpool faces the challenge of recovering from a key defensive injury while reinforcing their squad with Chiesa, who has seized his opportunity to contribute significantly in both domestic and European competitions.
PP