Rio Ngumoha announced himself on the international stage, winning player of the match for England against New Zealand, but he can’t be called up for the World Cup.
Given the quality of some of the names left out of Thomas Tuchel’s squad – Cole Palmer and Phil Foden, for example – it was no surprise that Ngumoha wasn’t included in the England squad.
He was, however, given the chance to head out to the USA to help with England’s preparations alongside fellow youngsters Ethan Nwaneri, Josh King and Alex Scott.
As a result of Arsenal‘s four England players joining the squad late, Ngumoha played the second half of England’s 1-0 friendly win over New Zealand on Saturday.
England's Rio Ngumoha during the international friendly match at the Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. Picture date: Saturday June 6, 2026.
Liverpool’s 17-year-old stood out in the Florida heat, earning himself the player of the match award and plaudits from his teammates.
However, he cannot be drafted into the World Cup squad, even in the event of injury.
Why Rio Ngumoha can’t play in the World Cup
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Saturday, February 28, 2026: Liverpool's Rio Ngumoha during the FA Premier League match between Liverpool FC and West Ham United FC at Anfield. (Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)
Despite playing in England’s warm-up match, Ngumoha can’t be called up to the World Cup squad because he was not included on Tuchel’s provisional 55-man list.
Of the four youngsters who are training with the team and aren’t in the final 26-man squad, only Bournemouth‘s Scott is eligible to be called up in the event of injury.
While it would have been a great opportunity for Ngumoha, Liverpool’s coaches may secretly be relieved due to how they have carefully managed the youngster’s minutes this season.
There is no doubt now, though, that the winger will be on the radar for whoever is in charge of England over the next few years.
Rio Ngumoha receives high praise from England teammates
Jude Bellingham was the player to present Ngumoha with his first cap in the dressing room after full time.
The Real Madrid midfielder said: “Congratulations on an amazing debut. I think we all enjoyed watching it.
“Obviously, you’re going to have a really bright future at your club and hopefully with us as well.
“It’s a pleasure to give it to you because I know there will be so many more, so congratulations.”
Even Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford had to give Ngumoha his dues, adding: “He was quality, nothing fazed him.
“He’s had a really good season at Liverpool and the manager gave him his debut and he showed how good he is.
“All the young lads have been brilliant in training. They have moulded into the squad and helped us massively and it also shows the talent we have in the system.”
Ngumoha should leave the England camp and head off on holiday once the World Cup begins, but he will be eager to get back to Merseyside to make a statement under new coach Andoni Iraola.
The right-footed winger will have more competition next season on the wings. Nevertheless, it should be viewed as a priority for Liverpool to ensure his development continues.