Liverpool star Curtis Jones believes that Chelsea had a youngster who is now more skillful than Mohamed Salah.
Sometimes a single comment shifts the spotlight. As per latest news, Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones has caught attention following his recent comments. He was asked a simple question about skill at Liverpool. His answer turned heads across the Premier League and reopened a painful chapter for Chelsea.
Jones did not name Mohamed Salah, instead he chose a young winger Chelsea once had and let slip. That name was Rio Ngumoha. As Liverpool prepare for another busy run of games in the season, Jones’ words carry weight. They speak about belief inside the squad and trust in youth. It was a missed chance that still hurts Chelsea.
Curtis Jones’ Call That Changed The Conversation
Curtis Jones on the most skilful player in the Liverpool squad:
“I’ll probably say Rio [Ngumoha].”
“You see him every day in training. I remember the first day when he came in I was like ‘woah’. He’s just shown it every day.” pic.twitter.com/X9SudFNiQY
— The Anfield Buzz (@TheAnfieldBuzz) January 6, 2026
Curtis Jones naming Rio Ngumoha as the most skillful player at Liverpool says a lot. Salah is one of the most feared attackers in world football. He has delivered season after season for the Reds. For a teammate to look past him is not disrespect, it is recognition of young potential.
Though Ngumoha has not played regularly in recent months. His appearances have been limited. Still, he has clearly left an impression on his teammates and the fans. Jones sees something special in the winger, something that goes beyond numbers.
For Liverpool fans, this feels like a huge boost. There is a player developing away from the noise and learning the system. He is earning respect from senior figures as well.
Chelsea Lost A Talented Youngster
Chelsea were furious when Rio Ngumoha left. He was part of their academy system and was expected to grow within the club. Instead, Liverpool snapped him up and the move created a large hole in the Blues’ youth side.
Plenty of people at the club were not happy as the youngster left. That frustration has not faded still. Now, the player is now being compared to Mo Salah by a Liverpool midfielder.
The West London club will receive some money from the Ngumoha deal. But, everyone knows it will likely not come close to what he could achieve in the game. Talent like this cannot be replaced with a fee.
Liverpool are known to be patient while working on their youth system. They let players take their time to settle without rushing things on them. The Reds have not rushed Ngumoha as well. He has been eased into the squad. Minutes have been rare, but the trust in him is clear. The club sees long-term value in the young player.
This calm and careful approach often defines Liverpool’s success with their youth setup. They allow development to happen without pressure. When the time comes, the player is ready for the big stage in his career.
Jones’ praise suggests Ngumoha is already pushing standards in training. Skill is not just about tricks, it is about balance, touch, and decision-making. Those traits stand out quickly to teammates.
Chelsea’s Summer And A New Direction
Meanwhile, Chelsea moved fast in the summer. They added one of the most talented players in world football with the signing of Estevao Willian. The club instantly strengthened its attacking options. Estevao is clearly the signing of the summer for the Blues. There is also hope that he will have more impact in the first team squad following Enzo Maresca exit.
This move shows Chelsea’s intent. They do not want to repeat past mistakes. Losing Ngumoha was a lesson, and the club is working on to protect its talent better. They have already taken steps to avoid another mistake.
Meanwhile, another youngster is making his way at the West London club. Ryan Kavuma-McQueen has been tied down to a long-term contract. The winger is closing in on his first team debut as well.
The rise of new signings from abroad has made it far more difficult for academy players to break through. Without clear pathways, young talents look elsewhere. Although, Kavuma-McQueen’s situation seems otherwise.
A Match Preview Framed By Youth And Belief
As Liverpool head into their next clash, Jones’ comment adds an edge. It highlights confidence within the squad and belief in what is coming next. Liverpool’s current squad thrives on competition. When someone like Jones speaks openly, it reflects a healthy dressing room.
Ngumoha may not start the next game. He may not even feature, but his presence is felt. That matters in tight fixtures where energy and hunger can turn a match.
Chelsea will be watching closely. Seeing a former academy player praised this way is tough. It reminds them of what slipped through their fingers.
At the same time, the club has moved on. With youngsters like Estevao Willian and Kavuma-McQueen in their hands, the focus is forward. The Premier League football works in a way that someone loses a moment and another club gains from it.
What This Really Means Going Forward
This is not about Salah versus Ngumoha. It is about talent and potential. Jones’ words are a hint of the future, not a judgment of the present. Liverpool believe they have something special, while Chelsea believe they have learned their lesson.
As the season unfolds, these stories will connect again on the field. When they do, comments like this will feel less like talk and more like future predictions.
For now, the spotlight is on a young winger and a bold claim. The two clubs are moving in different directions. This comes all ahead of another crucial Premier League clash.
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