Liverpool’s future continues to shine as Rio Ngumoha has officially signed his first professional contract with the club.
The 17-year-old forward, who arrived from Chelsea’s academy in September 2024, has already shown flashes of brilliance at senior level.
From scoring a dramatic 100th-minute winner at Newcastle on his Premier League debut to stepping onto the Champions League stage against Atletico Madrid, Ngumoha has quickly proven he belongs on the big stage.
This new deal ties him to Anfield until 2028 and marks the latest step in a journey that has captivated Liverpool fans.
For Jurgen Klopp’s successor Arne Slot, Ngumoha represents not just youthful promise but a real first-team option in a squad that continues to balance investment with opportunities for academy graduates.
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Ngumoha’s rapid rise at Liverpool
Ngumoha’s impact has been impossible to ignore.
Handed his first senior minutes in an FA Cup tie against Accrington Stanley earlier this year, he followed up with appearances across the Carabao Cup, Premier League and Champions League.
His winner at St. James’ Park made headlines, while his European bow at Anfield underlined the trust Slot already places in him.
Liverpool see him as natural cover for Cody Gakpo on the left wing, a role that highlights the faith the club has in his ability to contribute immediately.
His pathway has been carefully managed, with the club refusing to block his progress by bringing in unnecessary reinforcements.
Ngumoha’s contract reflects Liverpool’s long-standing academy philosophy: reward comes not from inflated wages, but from opportunities on the pitch.
He will earn relatively modest wages in line with the club’s structure, but his development, experience and chance to secure improved terms in the near future will fuel his hunger to succeed.
Arne Slot has already praised the teenager’s presence in the squad, noting (via Liverpool FC):
“That’s also the beauty still of football that although we’ve spent a lot – there is still room [for Ngumoha].
“If we only spend and not sell then there was probably not room for him. But now there is room for him and he can show his qualities.”
Ngumoha’s story is still in its early chapters, but the signs point to a prodigious talent ready to etch his name into Liverpool’s long-term future.
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