Liverpool teenager Rio Ngumoha is quickly emerging as one of English football’s brightest prospects, just months after joining the club from Chelsea’s academy.
The 16-year-old winger and attacking midfielder, born in Newham, east London, began his football journey at Chelsea, signing for their academy aged eight. He progressed rapidly through the youth system, featuring for the club’s Under-21 side at just 15 and scoring in Chelsea’s Under-17 Premier League Cup final victory over Wolves in April 2024.
In the summer of 2024, Liverpool moved to secure his signature, convinced by his pace, creativity and ability to beat defenders. Ngumoha made his professional debut in January 2025, starting in the FA Cup against Accrington Stanley. The appearance made him Liverpool’s youngest-ever player to start a competitive match, aged just 16.
He has impressed further during pre-season, scoring twice and providing two assists in four matches, earning him a place in the squad for the FA Community Shield against Crystal Palace at Wembley. Liverpool manager Arne Slot has suggested that Ngumoha could play a regular role in the first team this season, with the player set to sign a new contract when he turns 17 next month.
Known for his pace, agility and composure on the ball, Ngumoha is comfortable on either wing or in a central attacking role. His performances have already drawn comparisons with some of the Premier League’s most dynamic young talents, and he is seen by many as a player capable of making a long-term impact at Anfield.
With his combination of technical skill and determination, Rio Ngumoha is already making headlines — and, at just 16, his career is only getting started.
