Jeremy Jacquet Injury Claim Emerges After $83M Liverpool Transfer - 'No Guarantee'

Liverpool's highly anticipated summer signing, French defender Jérémy Jacquet, faces a major setback with a serious shoulder injury sustained while playing for Rennes. The 20-year-old centre-back, acquired for £55 million ($74m) plus £5m in add-ons on a five-year contract (with a 12-month option), picked up the injury in Rennes' 3-1 Ligue 1 defeat to Lens. He fell awkwardly in the second half, leaving the pitch in agony[1][2].

Rennes manager Habib Beye confirmed the severity, stating: “For Jeremy, it's his shoulder... it's definitely quite serious.” Reports from L’Equipe suggest Jacquet may require surgery on his left shoulder, potentially ending his season prematurely and ruling him out for several weeks regardless[1][2]. A lengthy rehabilitation period could delay his integration until Liverpool's pre-season[1].

Jacquet, a France Under-21 international and Rennes academy product, expressed excitement about joining the reigning Premier League champions upon deal completion in the 2026 winter window. “I am honoured to sign for Liverpool, one of the greatest football institutions in the world,” he said, while aiming to end his time at his boyhood club on a high[1]. Liverpool beat competition from Chelsea, with head coach Arne Slot praising him as “a very big talent” beyond his years[2].

The injury adds to Liverpool's woes, extending beyond their squad. Slot questioned the team's luck: “Even if we sign a player and he's not even playing for us, he gets injured.” He noted frequent late concessions and defensive experiments amid a tough campaign, leaving Liverpool sixth after a loss to Manchester City[3]. Jacquet won't join until season's end, but there's no guarantee of immediate fitness, casting uncertainty over his Anfield debut[1][3].

Despite the blow, optimism surrounds Jacquet's potential to bolster Liverpool's defence next season[2].