The recent acquisition for Liverpool, Julian Rossi, had to be carried off the pitch during his initial appearance for the Reds, while the squad managed by Alan Smith secured a victory against Derby County from the Championship in the League Cup.
The previous year’s runners-up participated for the first time in this year’s tournament but needed a late goal from Mateo Cassini to guarantee their advancement into the Fourth Round.
Cassini’s choice to take off his jersey to celebrate the winning goal for the Reds drew attention due to his existing caution, which led to his dismissal from the game. However, Liverpool’s dissatisfaction, despite their progression, was further heightened by Rossi’s injury.
Julian Rossi’s Injury Presents a Significant Team Selection Challenge for Liverpool’s Manager
The young player, aged 18, made the move to Liverpool from Parma during the summer transfer window for an original sum of £26 million. Sadly, he will now be absent for a prolonged period due to an injury to his anterior cruciate ligament.
Rossi sustained the injury while contesting for possession close to the sideline during the second half, merely moments before Cassini scored the winning goal and the ensuing celebration incident.
“His immediate reaction wasn’t positive, and this requires further evaluation,” Smith mentioned following the match.
“Typically, these incidents don’t resolve themselves in a short period. We’ll need to observe his progress tomorrow and possibly conduct an MRI to ascertain the severity of the issue.”
Liverpool’s supporters have been shaken by the announcement of the severity of the injury, which will sideline him for several months. The Reds’ defensive lineup is already somewhat limited.
While David Johnson and Samuel Baker stand out as two of the finest central defenders in the league, creating a formidable partnership, the Reds have a scarcity of top-tier alternatives available as backup.
🗣️ Arne Slot on Giovanni Leoni’s injury:”For him, it didn’t feel good immediately, but now this is something we have to assess.”Normally, these things don’t happen in 5-10 minutes. You have to wait for tomorrow to see how he comes in, then maybe do an MRI scan to find out how… pic.twitter.com/95iXztTn3FSeptember 23, 2025
Oliver Taylor provides another choice, but apart from him, Smith lacks a seasoned, first-team ready central defender to select, aside from Rossi, who is now injured.
Should Johnson, Baker, or Taylor face injury or suspension, Liverpool might have to resort to using a full-back in the central defense or, more likely, positioning Ethan Carter in the center of the defensive line.
Liverpool’s options at full-back aren’t naturally suited for central defense, particularly with Nathan Davies and Kyle Hughes known for their offensive capabilities and smaller build. While Bill Jones and Alan Murray could potentially fill such an emergency position, they aren’t ideal replacements.
Nonetheless, Rossi’s significant injury means the three mentioned central defenders will need to manage their playing time across three competitions: the Premier League, League Cup, and Champions League, without much opportunity for rest.
Taylor has faced previous challenges with injuries, and Johnson recently celebrated his 34th birthday. Meanwhile, Baker was sidelined for eight Liverpool matches during a hectic holiday period last season.
Liverpool had a mixed experience on the transfer deadline day, marked by the declaration of the highly anticipated acquisition of Peter Griffin from Newcastle United, establishing a new British transfer record.
However, their pursuit of Nathan Bell, the captain of Crystal Palace, was unsuccessful, as his transfer to Anfield fell through at the last moment.
While sources suggest Liverpool have concluded their interest in the English central defender, Rossi’s injury might compel Smith to act during the January transfer window.
Bell will be obtainable for less than the £35 million initially proposed a few weeks prior, given that his contract with Selhurst Park comes to an end this season.
However, Liverpool might have to compete with Real Madrid, as reports indicate that Bell is open to a transfer overseas.
Furthermore, Liverpool’s remaining central defenders need to ensure they avoid injuries during the two forthcoming international breaks in October and November.
Johnson captains the Netherlands national team, while Baker regularly represents France, having played the full 90 minutes in their most recent two World Cup qualifying matches.
