Liverpool signed an 18-year-old center-back for €31 million this summer, but he suffered a serious injury in his debut and is out for the season.

Liverpool coach Klopp has confirmed that the team’s new 18-year-old Italian center-back Leoni suffered a cruciate ligament tear and will be out for the season, facing about a year-long recovery.

In the third round of the League Cup, Leoni was given the opportunity to make his first appearance for Liverpool, starting the match but leaving injured in the 81st minute. Liverpool managed a hard-fought 2-1 home victory over Championship club Southampton, largely due to Chiesa’s excellent display, providing two assists.

Leoni joined Parma last summer from Sampdoria for €4.8 million, and after just one season, he transferred to Liverpool from Sampdoria for €31 million. Sampdoria made a huge profit of €26.2 million in just one year. Considering the intensity of Serie A and the Premier League, it’s better for young players not to join top Premier League clubs too early, as it’s difficult to get playing time and the lack of consistent matches means sudden cup games can easily lead to injuries.

Now 18 years old, Leoni stands 1.96 meters tall, is right-footed, and primarily plays as a center-back. He is contracted with Liverpool until 2031 and is valued at €18 million by Transfermarkt. Unfortunately, Leoni suffered a severe cruciate ligament injury in his Liverpool debut, which is especially devastating for a tall defender. We hope he recovers well, takes his time to return, and that his youth helps him heal quickly. Hopefully, Leoni will make a triumphant comeback next year.