Following the 3-1 win over Preston in the opening preseason ahead of the 25/26 season, Liverpool fans were left buzzing about one name in particular: Rio Ngumoha.
The 16-year-old winger delivered an eye-catching performance that lit up social media and stirred excitement about what could be coming in the near future for the Reds.
While preseason matches are rarely judged with the same intensity as competitive fixtures, they do serve an important purpose: offering young talents a chance to impress. And Ngumoha did just that.
Starting in a mixed squad featuring both regulars and fringe players, the teenager looked fearless as he danced past defenders with quick feet and a confident demeanor.
It was a glimpse into the kind of player he is: direct, technical, and full of flair. At just 16, the English winger played with a maturity far beyond his years, constantly looking to progress the ball and take on opponents without hesitation.
Ngumoha joined Liverpool from Chelsea’s academy and is expected to sign his first professional contract with the club when he turns 17 later this year.
On Sunday’s evidence, that milestone may be only the beginning of something special. His fluid movement, ball control, and boldness had fans and analysts alike making early, though perhaps exaggerated comparisons to the likes of Neymar.
Social media, especially X (formerly Twitter), was flooded with praise following the match. “Reminds me of someone,” wrote one user, with another replying, “Facts. Need to give him more game time this season.”
Reminds me of someone.. pic.twitter.com/IWe1VBmjdf
— lampa (@LampaAnton) July 13, 2025
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One of the most talked-about moments involved his link-up play with Federico Chiesa during a goal. “Him and Chiesa on that goal was a beauty to watch,” posted @Raws_LFC, while another fan account described them as “technical demons.”
The excitement was palpable across various fan accounts, with @KayLFC05_ firmly declaring, “He’s our product,” in response to banter about Ngumoha’s Chelsea roots. Others focused on his boldness in possession. “I love his boldness in taking on defenders,” shared @iamedemgabby2. Another fan simply said, “No fear at all,” summing up the mood surrounding the youngster’s style of play.
Rio is our best academy product since Gerrard. We don’t need a left winger, give him game time next season.
He’s absolutely ready.
Advertisement— 𝙆𝙖𝙮™️ #20TIMES🏆 (@KayLFC05_) July 13, 2025
It’s still early days, and caution is always advised when judging young players after a single preseason match. But there was something different about Ngumoha’s performance not just the skill, but the composure and self-belief that shone through in every touch.
