Rio Ngumoha is among the top prospects in Liverpool’s Academy but he’s struggling for regular minutes under Arne Slot, a trend which is expected to continue.
Liverpool fans have called for Ngumoha to play more this season, a wish that has yet to be granted.
The youngster did come off the bench in the FA Cup win over Brighton and Hove Albion at the weekend and had a goal ruled out for offside.
Start, bring on, leave on the bench vs Forest… ✅🔄🪑
Which Liverpool gem do you most want to see vs Forest?
Rio Ngumoha of Liverpool running during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Liverpool FC and Atletico de Madrid at Anfield. Trey Nyoni in action during Liverpool's pre-season friendly against Athletic Bilbao at Anfield. Kieran Morrison during Liverpool v Crystal Palace - Carabao Cup Fourth Round.
Credit: Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar/Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Dan Istitene/Getty Images
However, Ngumoha has so far been afforded just 76 minutes of Premier League football across eight outings this term.
Rio Ngumoha might not play much at Liverpool
This comes despite many Liverpool fans expressing frustration at Cody Gakpo, who has primarily occupied the left-wing role this season when fit.
On paper, the FA Cup would be the best place for the 17-year-old to start actually starting matches as he progresses throughout his career.
However, Paul Gorst has now suggested, via the Liverpool Echo, that the fact Slot is taking the cup competition more seriously this season may mean Ngumoha may be forced to settle for a cameo role.
MORE LIVERPOOL STORIES
He stated: “The last thing Slot wants is for the crowd to get on the back of a 17-year-old with a bright future because one or two things he tries don’t work in a game where a result is imperative.
“With Liverpool seemingly taking the FA Cup a bit more seriously than previous years now as well, Ngumoha might be forced to settle for more cameos off the bench. There is no rush on his development, though. He isn’t legally able to buy himself a beer until late August.”
Which exciting Liverpool youngster will have the brightest future at Anfield?
Trey Nyoni in action during Liverpool's pre-season friendly against Athletic Bilbao at Anfield. Rio Ngumoha of Liverpool celebrates at full-time following the team's victory in the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Liverpool at St James' Park
Credit: George Wood/Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Getty Images
Arne Slot’s hope for Rio Ngumoha
Slot has been criticised for his use of Academy players at Liverpool this season.
Whether you agree with how he’s handled the youngsters or not, the Dutchman does seem to want to give the Academy products more playing time.
Speaking last month, Slot commented on Ngumoha playing more, suggesting the plan is eventually for him to play 90 minutes in the Premier League.
He said: “It’s already great for him and for Liverpool that everybody is following us that a 17-year-old makes so many minutes in a Liverpool shirt.
“So let’s hope he can continue and we can bring him further and further towards 90 minutes at Premier League.”
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox