Leoni stretchered off with concerning injury on full Liverpool debut | OneFootball

Italy talent Giovanni Leoni was stretchered off with a concerning looking injury towards the end of Liverpool’s 2-1 EFL Cup victory over Southampton on Tuesday evening.

Leoni picks up concerning injury on full Liverpool debut

The former Parma defender, who earned his first call-up to the Italy national team in September, was named in the starting line-up on Tuesday night for the first time since his €35m transfer to Liverpool in the summer.

The teenage centre-back made a strong impression, particularly during the first-half, when he completed more passes than any other player on the pitch (59) and also completed 100% of his aerial duels, on top of four clearances, two interceptions and two ball recoveries.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 23: Giovanni Leoni of Liverpool controls the ball whilst under pressure from Leo Scienza of Southampton during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Liverpool and Southampton at Anfield on September 23, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)

Towards the end of what had been an impressive debut for the 18-year-old, there was an incident that required immediate medical attention and later a stretcher.

Leoni was chasing down his opponent, got his legs in a tangle and took a nasty tumble on the touchline. He also took a knock to the head on his way down.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 23: Giovanni Leoni of Liverpool is stretchered off having suffered an injury during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Liverpool and Southampton at Anfield on September 23, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)

The stretcher was called for almost immediately, and fan footage shows that his left leg was strapped down, raising alarm over a potential knee injury.

It remains to be seen how serious Leoni’s injury will be. Furhter updates are expected in due course.