The Rise of Rio Ngumoha: How Liverpool Secured a Future Star from Chelsea

From the age of eight to 16, Rio Ngumoha was a Blue. A Chelsea Blue. But now, there is no doubting it - the forward is a Red after scoring Liverpool's last-minute winner away at Newcastle. All the talk going into Monday's game was about whether Liverpool might sign Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, who remains in exile, after a £110m bid was rejected earlier this month. But Ngumoha was the post-match headliner.

Why Did He Leave Chelsea for Liverpool?

According to multiple sources, Ngumoha, who was born in Newham in London, decided to leave Chelsea because he believed the pathway on offer was better at Liverpool. Those close to him believe that Ngumoha's chances so far have vindicated his decision to move. Multiple Premier League options were weighed up by his family and close advisors.

At Chelsea, Ngumoha was regarded as the best player in his age group, but he still was not sure about whether he would get enough early chances in the first team. This was despite attempted assurances and several significant future contracts having been offered. Despite all this, one source said he was not made to feel special or like he would indeed be fast-tracked into the first team.

Chelsea Takeover Aftermath Did Not Help

There is a wider context around Chelsea during Ngumoha's time there, with the club undergoing rapid change under the Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital ownership. Morale had dipped in the senior academy squad after the 2022 takeover, with some sources saying that the amount of young overseas players being bought for the first team was a key factor.

How Good Can Ngumoha Become?

The same points keep cropping up when people who know Ngumoha talk about him: he has a great mentality, is a top dribbling talent, and that his brother James has been crucial to his development. Ngumoha, who has represented England U15s, U16s, and U17s, played at the Ole Futsal Academy in small-sided matches alongside his development in Chelsea's academy.

Ole Futsal owner Alfie Brooks told BBC Sport: "Rio was outstanding and the same player now as when he was on television last night. His footwork and first touch were outstanding from an early age but what set him apart was his ability to execute those skills at speed. He can beat players with ease, he is very technical."

If he stays in the same pathway, he can reach any level he wants.

Conclusion

Liverpool's acquisition of Rio Ngumoha is a testament to their strategic foresight in youth development. As Ngumoha continues to grow and develop, the football world will be watching closely to see if he can fulfill his immense potential and become a cornerstone of Liverpool's future success.