Liverpool fans give early verdict on Giovanni Leoni after watching debut against Southampton
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A few debuts have been handed out, with one of these being for centre-back Giovanni Leoni, with the young Italian starting alongside Joe Gomez at the back.
There has been a lot of hype surrounding the teenager, but this is Liverpool fans’ first glance at seeing him in action, and it is safe to say they have been left impressed in a short period of time.
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The Reds wanted a new defender all summer, preferably a young one too, and they felt Leoni was the best option, especially as he cost just £26m.
He has had to be patient for his chance, however, with the young defender yet to play a single minute before starting this EFL Cup game.
Many may have thought he would take some time to get up to speed for this reason, but he has started the game rather well, with Liverpool fans left impressed.
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One fan wrote on X: “Leoni looking damn good for an 18-year-old,” while another referenced his stature, saying: ” Leoni looks like a right unit!”
A third fan liked his all-round game so far, saying: “Leoni started very well, technique is good, good header of the ball, good presence.”
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A fourth added: “Leoni, very composed,’ with another agreeing and believing he is playing similarly to the Reds’ club captain, writing: “Leoni is already mimicking Van Dijk.”
One supporter thinks his short time on the pitch has told him everything he needs to know, saying: “I’ve seen enough, Leoni is going to be world class.”
A seventh said: “Leoni is a star, wow,” while a final supporter summed his performance so far up nicely, writing: “I love this Leoni lad’s movement with the ball.
He looks classy.”
There is a lot of pressure on the young Italian’s shoulders, with many previously comparing him to some of his country’s finest.
Many have also likened him to Virgil van Dijk and believe he is the heir to the Dutchman’s throne, and he is certainly very similar to the Liverpool captain.
Leoni is strong, powerful and very composed, with his ability on the ball also very good given his age.
Of course, it is only the EFL Cup and he has not played many minutes at all, but the early signs are very good and Leoni has a lot of potential to grow.