“It appears that…” – Fabrizio Romano’s update on Leoni injury hints at nightmare news for Liverpool.

Leoni stretchered off in debut as Liverpool edge Southampton 2-1

Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Southampton in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday night was overshadowed by a worrying moment late in the match, as Giovanni Leoni was stretchered off in the final minutes at Anfield.

The Italian centre-back, making his Reds debut under new boss Arne Slot, delivered an impressive performance before suffering a painful-looking injury in the 80th minute after an awkward landing. Milos Kerkez was brought on to see out the remainder of the tie.

Slot’s comments after the game didn’t offer much optimism, with the manager admitting the team is awaiting scan results to determine the severity of the teenager’s knee problem.

Fabrizio Romano provides latest on Leoni injury

Writing in his GIVEMESPORT newsletter, Fabrizio Romano was asked whether there had been any further developments regarding Leoni’s condition. The transfer expert responded:
“Not yet, waiting for Liverpool tests. But for sure it looks like not a small injury. Player’s side also waiting for scans and hoping for the best.”

Concerns rise over potential ACL damage

Injury analyst @physioscout on X highlighted that the mechanics of the incident – the knee appearing to collapse and twist – could indicate a potential ACL injury. That would be a major setback for Leoni, especially after such a promising start to his Liverpool career.

In a show of support, fellow Italian and Juventus star Federico Chiesa reached out to Leoni following the injury – a gesture of solidarity amid uncertainty over the youngster’s immediate future.

Should Leoni face a lengthy spell on the sidelines, his absence could force a reshuffle in Liverpool’s Champions League squad, with another player possibly being registered in his place.

Hopes for a positive outcome

Liverpool have seen a number of young talents have their momentum halted by untimely injuries – names like Kaide Gordon, Stefan Bajcetic, and Calum Scanlon come to mind. Supporters will now be hoping that Leoni avoids a similar fate.

For now, the hope is that the scans reveal minimal damage and that Leoni is able to return to action soon. While early signs aren’t overly positive, there’s still a chance that the injury isn’t as serious as feared.

Fingers crossed the 18-year-old makes a swift and full recovery.