Early Life and Background
Rio Chima Ngumoha was born on August 29, 2008, in Newham, London, to Nigerian and Guadeloupean parents. He holds Nigerian and French nationalities through his parents, while also being eligible for England. Though born in England, Ngumoha is of Nigerian descent through his father and Guadeloupean heritage from his mother.
International Career
Ngumoha has represented England at youth levels, making his U15 and U16 debuts in 2023 before stepping up to the U17s in October 2024. He was also called up for the 2025 UEFA European Under-17 Championship. While he currently plays for England, he remains eligible to represent Nigeria at the senior level.
Breakthrough at Liverpool
Ngumoha made headlines in January 2025 when he became Liverpool’s youngest-ever starter in a senior match, featuring in the FA Cup against Accrington at just 16 years and 135 days old. Later that year, he made his Premier League debut, scoring a dramatic 100th-minute winner against Newcastle United at St James’ Park. That strike made him only the fourth 16-year-old to score in the Premier League.
Rising Reputation
Known for his flair, creativity, and versatility as both a winger and attacking midfielder, Ngumoha has been described as a “skillful” and “dynamic” forward. He was featured in The Guardian’s “Next Generation 2024: 20 of the Best Talents at Premier League Clubs,” highlighting his growing reputation across European football.
From Chelsea to Anfield
Ngumoha began his football journey at Chelsea, where he joined the academy at the age of eight. In 2024, he made the bold decision to switch to Liverpool, believing it offered him a clearer pathway to first-team football. His rapid rise since then has validated the move, earning him inclusion in Liverpool’s pre-season tour of Hong Kong and Japan.
Record-Breaking Teenager
In addition to being Liverpool’s youngest-ever starter, Ngumoha has become their youngest scorer in European competition after featuring against Atletico Madrid. His achievements have already placed him in the record books of one of the world’s most storied clubs.
Professional Contract
Ngumoha recently signed his first professional contract with Liverpool, marking another milestone in his meteoric rise. However, due to FA safeguarding regulations, he is currently banned from sharing a dressing room with senior teammates until he turns 18. This rule, designed to protect minors, means Ngumoha must prepare separately on matchdays.
