Liverpool forward expected to be out for five to seven weeks
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Image Credits: Imago ImagesLiverpool have largely been fortunate with injuries during Arne Slot’s tenure, but Giovanni Leoni has now handed the Reds a significant setback.
Leoni faces a lengthy spell out with a serious knee injury sustained on his debut against Southampton in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday night.
The 18-year-old, signed from Parma for £26m in August, impressed before being stretchered off after 81 minutes.
His absence is expected to last months, dealing a heavy blow after his recent call-up to the Italy squad.
Arne Slot said post-match on September 23: “For him it didn’t feel good immediately, but this is something now we have to assess.
“Normally these things don’t happen in five to 10 minutes and you have to wait for tomorrow to see how he comes in and then maybe do an MRI scan to know more about how serious it is.”
Leoni thanked Liverpool supporters for their messages after being stretchered off against Southampton.
He wrote on Instagram: “I want to sincerely thank every single person who has shown me support in this difficult moment.
“It wasn’t the debut I had always dreamed of, but I will give everything to be back playing in this magical stadium as soon as possible.
“Thank you so much!”
Another summer signing is also expected to be sidelined for several weeks.
Will Wright was stretchered off in Liverpool’s UEFA Youth League opener after jarring his knee in a challenge.
The 17-year-old was replaced by Kareem Ahmed in the 12th minute of the 0-0 draw with Atletico Madrid.
According to the Daily Mail, Wright is expected to be sidelined for five to seven weeks.
Liverpool signed Will Wright from Salford City on a permanent deal last summer.
Wright made his senior debut in November 2024 in an EFL Trophy clash with Wolves U21s and went on to feature in the FA Cup and twice in League Two during the 2024-25 season.
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