Liverpool defender Giovanni Leoni will have to wait longer before returning to first-team training, with head coach Andoni Iraola revealing that his recovery is taking more time than expected.
The 19-year-old suffered a serious ACL injury on his Liverpool debut against Southampton in September 2025. He was initially expected to rejoin the squad during the recent international break, but that plan has now been pushed back.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, Iraola explained that the injury was more complicated than initially thought, with additional damage involving several parts of Leoni’s knee.
The Liverpool youngster is now expected to begin training with the group during the next international break, provided his recovery progresses as planned.
Leoni joined Liverpool from Parma last summer in a £26 million deal, and the club will be keen to ensure he returns fully fit rather than risk another setback.
Meanwhile, Liverpool could also be without Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai for Saturday’s Premier League clash against Brentford.
Liverpool fans will have to remain patient as the young defender continues his recovery.
