Arne Slot shares update on Giovanni Leoni while injury expert gives concerning assessment.

Giovanni Leoni was delivering an outstanding performance in his Liverpool debut on Tuesday night before a concerning injury abruptly ended his evening.

The 18-year-old made his first start for the Reds in their Carabao Cup clash against Southampton, impressing at Anfield with a composed and confident display. Paul Gorst of the Liverpool Echo praised the Italian defender, noting he “looked a huge prospect” and “didn’t put a foot wrong” throughout the game.

Unfortunately, with just 10 minutes remaining, Leoni was forced off after an awkward landing following a challenge near the sideline. He now faces an anxious wait for scan results to determine the extent of the injury.

What did Arne Slot say about Leoni’s injury?

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Arne Slot expressed concern, saying via liverpoolfc.com:
“Of course, he is down because it didn’t feel good straight away, but now we need to assess the situation.”

“These things usually take more than five or ten minutes to evaluate properly. We’ll have to see how he’s doing tomorrow and potentially conduct an MRI to get a clearer picture of the damage.”

Slot also reflected on how a player’s emotional reaction can be telling, referencing Ruben van Bommel of PSV, who left a game in tears before being diagnosed with a serious injury. “Let’s hope for the best,” he added.

Injury analyst shares early insight

Following the match, injury analyst @physioscout on X offered a cautious assessment, noting that while video footage was limited, the nature of Leoni’s knee movement—collapsing inward and twisting—could indicate a potential ACL injury.

They outlined a range of possible outcomes:

If it’s only bruising, Leoni might return within a week.

A meniscus injury could see him sidelined for 3–4 months.

A confirmed ACL tear would likely end his season.

Hoping for a positive outcome

Slot’s comments carried a slightly grim undertone, and the mention of Van Bommel’s situation only heightened concerns. The analyst’s observation that Leoni may have undergone a Lachman’s test—a standard procedure for checking ACL damage—further adds to the unease.

It would be a cruel twist for the young defender, who showed such promise on his debut, to have his season potentially ended after just one appearance.

For now, all eyes are on the scan results, with hope that the injury proves to be minor and that Leoni can quickly resume his promising rise at Liverpool.