Liverpool defender Giovanni Leoni has torn his ACL could be ruled out for a spell of around nine months in what is a huge blow for the club.
The 18-year-old tore his ACL on Tuesday during the Reds' 2-1 win over Southampton in the Carabao Cup at Anfield in what is a cruel blow for the defender who impressed many supporters with his strength and agility at the back.
As reported by journalist Fabrizio Romano, Leoni will be out for several months in a crushing blow for him and manager Arne Slot, who will have to reshuffle his side.
"Liverpool centre back Giovanni Leoni has torn his ACL and will be out for several months," Romano revealed on X.
"After an excellent debut in the League Cup last night, with Arne Slot also very happy, an unlucky injury for Leoni, who will try to be back before the end of the season."
The defender was checked over by medical staff on the side of the pitch before being taken away on a stretcher, much to the disappointment of the Anfield crowd.
However, Liverpool do at least have the option to make a change to their Champions League squad to ensure they are not left short. This is because UEFA enables clubs to make one change to their squad during the league phase in response to long-term injury or illness.
If an outfield player is set to be ruled out for at least 60 days, the club can replace them immediately. As Leoni is, he will be replaced by Slot as many predict Federico Chiesa could step in to take his place after his impressive form as of late.
