Liverpool‘s 17-year-old talent, Rio Ngumoha, is making a significant impact when coming off the bench this season, leading manager Arne Slot to give him more chances to play.
According to Paul Joyce of the Sunday Times, as noted by Anfield Sector, Slot plans to utilize Ngumoha’s exceptional skills and speed to help Liverpool finish the 2025/26 Premier League season on a high note.
Despite heavy investments in players like Hugo Ekitike, Alexander Isak, and Florian Wirtz, Liverpool has faced challenges in Slot’s first season as manager, struggling to secure a Champions League qualification spot.
Mohamed Salah’s reduced one-on-one effectiveness and Cody Gakpo’s struggles as a replacement for Luis Diaz have contributed to these difficulties. With Slot hesitant to use Federico Chiesa, Ngumoha’s increased playing time is becoming crucial for the team.
In a recent Premier League match against Nottingham Forest, Ngumoha made a notable impact, providing crucial plays in one-on-one situations that helped shift the game in Liverpool’s favor.
Fans have been urging Slot to give more opportunities to dynamic wingers like Chiesa and Ngumoha, and there is anticipation for more minutes—and possibly starts—for the young player.