Giovanni Leoni injury: Liverpool target November training return after delay

Giovanni Leoni’s injury recovery is taking longer than Liverpool had hoped, with Andoni Iraola now targeting November’s international break for his return to team training.

The 19-year-old defender has been sidelined since suffering an ACL tear on his Liverpool debut against Southampton in the Carabao Cup in September 2025.

Giovanni Leoni injury recovery requires patience

Speaking at Thursday’s press conference, in comments published on Liverpool’s official website, Iraola confirmed that the original training target had slipped.

“It’s taking more time than we wanted,” he said.

Liverpool had hoped Leoni would rejoin the group during the recent international break. That stage of his rehabilitation is now expected around a month later.

As This Is Anfield reports, Iraola explained that the original damage involved more than the ACL. Liverpool want the defender to feel confident in his knee and be ready to sustain his involvement once he resumes group work.

The head coach described the situation as a delay rather than a new setback. November remains a training target, with no confirmed date for Leoni’s return to competitive matches.

Liverpool assess options for Brentford

Separately, Iraola has left open the possibility of Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai returning against Brentford, with the trio still being assessed.

Liverpool visit the Gtech Community Stadium on Saturday. Read our Brentford vs Liverpool viewing guide for kick-off and coverage details.