Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has provided an update on the recovery of young defender Giovanni Leoni, who has been sidelined for over a year with a serious knee injury. Iraola indicated that while there has been “a little bit of a delay” in the process, the club hopes Leoni will rejoin first-team training during the November international break.
Injury Details and Recovery Progress
Leoni sustained the significant knee injury on his Liverpool debut, an EFL Cup third-round match against Southampton, more than a year ago. The injury was described as complex, involving “a lot of things around the knee” beyond just an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear. This complexity has necessitated a careful rehabilitation process, contributing to the extended recovery period.
The initial plan for Leoni to return to first-team training during the previous international break was not met. However, the focus has now shifted to the upcoming November international break as the target for the 19-year-old to begin training with the senior squad.
Leoni’s Journey to Anfield
Liverpool secured Leoni’s services from Parma in the summer of 2025 for a fee of €35 million plus add-ons. The then 18-year-old had impressed in Serie A, making 17 appearances before his move to Anfield. His promising start at Liverpool was abruptly halted by the injury, and he has not featured for the club since that debut appearance.
The club’s medical department is working to ensure Leoni is fully confident and physically ready before his complete reintegration into the squad, aiming for a sustained return without further setbacks.