Mohamed Salah’s expected departure will mark the end of an era at Liverpool, with the No. 11 shirt set to become available for the first time since 2017.
It’s a number that has become iconic at Anfield, synonymous with goals, records and relentless consistency. Naturally, there will be no shortage of interest in who takes it next. But one Liverpool player has already made his intentions clear.
Rising talent Rio Ngumoha has admitted he’s got his eye on the famous shirt, openly speaking about his dream of one day inheriting Salah’s No. 11.
Wirtz needs a rest, but who on earth is going to play right-back?
It surely won't be Gomez or Frimpong 😬
Liverpool's Predicted XI vs Fulham
Liverpool’s Predicted XI vs Fulham
Ngumoha names Neymar and Salah as inspiration behind No. 11 dream
Ngumoha hasn’t been shy in revealing the thinking behind his preferred number, telling Sky Sports that he sees Salah’s shirt as being his ‘dream’.
“I think my dream number will be like 11 or something,” the 17-year-old said during a Q&A on Saturday.
“Watching Neymar play for Barcelona and Mo, Mo has obviously broken all the records of number 11.”
Going on to name Neymar as his childhood hero, Ngumoha has clear plans to emulate the Brazilian legend, while Salah has elevated the number to legendary status at Liverpool. As ever, the youngster is certainly aiming high.
Rio Ngumoha shakes hands with Mohamed Salah as he comes on as a substitute during the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Liverpool
Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
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Ngumoha faces uphill battle to claim iconic shirt
As bold as Ngumoha’s ambition is, the reality suggests he may have to wait.
After Salah’s departure, the No. 11 shirt at Liverpool will carry huge weight, and will possibly be reserved for one of the club’s new attacking signings.
Right now, Ngumoha is still establishing himself and doesn’t yet hold that status within the squad, no matter whether many fans see him as a potential starter.
However, there is still progression to be made. A move away from No. 73 to a lower, more traditional squad number feels far more realistic in the short term. If his development continues, the dream of No. 11 may not be impossible, just a little premature.
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