Liverpool’s summer signings may have grabbed headlines, but it’s a teenager who has stolen the show in preseason. At just 16 years old, Rio Ngumoha has dazzled fans and teammates alike with fearless dribbling and jaw-dropping solo goals — performances that have already earned him a new nickname.
New arrival Jeremie Frimpong was quick to sing his praises, calling the youngster “Mr. 1 v 1” after watching him torment defenders with ease.
Ngumoha, who swapped Chelsea’s academy for Liverpool last year, has been breaking records since his arrival. He became the Reds’ youngest-ever starter in a competitive fixture during last season’s FA Cup clash with Accrington Stanley, and has since impressed in Premier League 2. Now, a standout preseason has only strengthened his case for first-team football.
The winger’s highlights so far:
- ⚽ Goal and assist vs Athletic Bilbao at Anfield — barely misplacing a pass all game.
- ⚡ Solo stunner against Yokohama in Japan, showcasing his pace and flair.
- 🎯 Assist and dazzling runs vs AC Milan, leaving defenders scrambling.
With Luis Díaz departing, a vacancy has opened up on Liverpool’s left flank. Ngumoha could seize the opportunity, though the club is also weighing up high-profile moves for PSG’s Bradley Barcola and Real Madrid’s Rodrygo.
Manager Arne Slot has been impressed but urged patience:
“He’s showing real promise, but the Premier League is a different challenge. Playing every few days requires consistency. If he keeps this up, though, these won’t be his last minutes for the first team.”
For now, the excitement around Ngumoha is growing fast. At 16, “Mr. 1 v 1” looks like Liverpool’s next breakout star — and perhaps the heir to Anfield’s left wing.
