Rio Ngumoha Profile: From Chelsea’s Academy to Liverpool’s Record Books
Every once in a while, football throws up a teenager who makes the whole world stop and say, “Wait… he’s how old?” Enter Rio Ngumoha, Liverpool’s brand-new golden boy, who announced himself in the most Hollywood way possible: a 100th-minute winner against Newcastle on his Premier League debut. Oh, and he’s just 16 years old.
Born in Newham, London on August 29, 2008, Rio Chima Ngumoha spent his early football years at Chelsea’s academy. He was already turning heads with his flair, dribbling, and ability to make defenders look silly. But in 2024, Liverpool swooped in and brought him to Merseyside, a move that didn’t exactly thrill Chelsea fans.
Quick Facts: Rio Ngumoha
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Rio Chima Ngumoha |
| Date of Birth | 29 August 2008 (16 years old) |
| Place of Birth | Newham, London |
| Height | 1.70 m |
| Position | Winger (mostly left, but versatile) |
| Current Club | Liverpool FC |
| Previous Club | Chelsea Academy (2016–2024) |
| Nationality | English (also eligible for Nigeria & France) |
| International | England U15, U16, U17 |
Making History at Liverpool
When Arne Slot took charge of Liverpool, few expected him to turn to a 16-year-old in crunch moments. But Ngumoha had already impressed in pre-season, scoring and assisting like he belonged with the big boys.
Then came August 25, 2025. Liverpool vs Newcastle. Stoppage time. With nerves of steel, Ngumoha smashed home a 100th-minute winner to become:
Liverpool’s youngest-ever goalscorer (16 years, 361 days). The second 16-year-old in Premier League history to score a match-winning goal, joining none other than Wayne Rooney.
International Future
Ngumoha has already represented England at youth level (U15, U16, U17), scoring a few goals along the way. But with Nigerian and Guadeloupean roots, plus eligibility for France, there could be a tug-of-war for his international future down the line. England fans, better keep him happy.
What’s Next?
Ngumoha is still a kid, literally. He has school friends who probably haven’t even done their A-Levels yet. But he’s already writing chapters in Liverpool’s history books. With Salah and Diaz as role models, the sky’s the limit for the teenage prodigy.
For Liverpool fans, he’s the ultimate dream: homegrown flair, a clutch goal-scorer, and someone who might just define the next decade at Anfield.
In short: Rio Ngumoha isn’t just another academy kid. He’s the kid who made Anfield roar before his 17th birthday. If you didn’t know his name yesterday, you definitely do now.
Also Read- Players Who Played For Both Newcastle And Liverpool: From Michael Owen To Alexander Isak Rumours

