Rio Ngumoha: Liverpool’s 16-year-old gem shines in the academy after being released by Chelsea
Liverpool’s academy gem Rio Ngumoha is turning heads after joining the club from Chelsea, demonstrating his immense potential at just 16 years old. Released by the Blues in September last year, the talented winger has rapidly become one of the standout performers across Liverpool’s youth squads.
Despite his age, Ngumoha is already splitting time between the U18 and U21 squads, regularly appearing in both the Premier League youth competitions and the UEFA Youth League.
A breakout academy talent with a senior debut already under his belt
Since arriving at Anfield, Ngumoha has made a strong impression, accumulating 25 appearances across youth levels. Operating primarily as an inverted left winger, the young forward has tallied two goals and three assists, thanks to his agility, vision, and technical ability on the flank.
His development hasn’t gone unnoticed by Liverpool’s first-team staff. New head coach Arne Slot, who led the team to Premier League glory in his debut season, handed Ngumoha his senior debut in the third round of the FA Cup earlier this year.
Ngumoha’s playing style: flair, versatility, and creativity
Described by the British press as an exceptionally creative winger with superb close control, Ngumoha thrives when cutting inside from the left onto his favored right foot. He’s also proven adaptable, capable of playing deeper as a wide midfielder or even switching to the right flank when required.
His flair on the ball and natural attacking instincts have drawn comparisons to elite-level wide players, making him one of the most exciting prospects in Liverpool’s youth pipeline.
Senior debut vs Accrington highlights future potential
Ngumoha made his first-team debut in Liverpool’s 4–0 FA Cup win over Accrington, a League Two side. Coming on in the 72nd minute to replace fellow academy product Jayden Danns, the teenager was involved in 30 on-ball actions, completed three of seven dribbles, and received a SofaScore rating of 6.6.
While the outing was brief, it served as a major milestone in his journey and hinted at a promising future under the guidance of Arne Slot.
Rio Ngumoha, o novo prodígio do Liverpool. pic.twitter.com/xPubjQPgVP
— Curiosidades PL (@CuriosidadesPRL) July 29, 2025
