Young Liverpool talent Rio Ngumoha is aiming to achieve something that even club legend Steven Gerrard never managed during his illustrious career—winning the Ballon d’Or.
After spending time in Chelsea’s academy, the 16-year-old joined Liverpool last year and quickly made a name for himself. He was called up to Liverpool’s first team in December 2024, marking his debut on the bench during an EFL Cup match against Southampton. Although his age restricts him from using the first-team dressing room, Ngumoha didn’t have to wait long to make an impact. He made history by becoming the youngest player to start in a first-team game for Liverpool in the FA Cup third-round victory over Accrington Stanley in January.
Expressing his ambition on the podcast “Inside The Academy,” Ngumoha declared, “I truly believe I can win the Ballon d’Or one day. I want to be regarded as one of the best players to ever play football and be a legend of the game.” He has been playing football since the age of four, inspired by his brother, and cites resilience and self-belief as keys to overcoming the inevitable challenges that come in his development.
If he were to win the prestigious individual award, Ngumoha would be the first Liverpool player to do so since Michael Owen in 2001, a statistic that excites fans of the club. Enthusiasm for his potential is palpable among supporters, with many taking to social media to express their excitement regarding his future. Comments range from hopeful anticipation of his contributions in the upcoming seasons to cautious optimism regarding his physical readiness for a more prominent role in the squad.
While some fans suggest he should be integrated into the attacking rotation this season, others advocate for a more measured approach, highlighting the importance of further developing his physicality before relying on him in competitive matches. This debate reflects a healthy eagerness for Ngumoha’s growth while being mindful of the pressures that young talent often faces.
As Liverpool fans continue to rally behind Ngumoha, his journey represents both hope and excitement for the club’s future, promising to add a new chapter to the rich history of Liverpool FC.