I'm an ex-Liverpool star whose son plays for the Reds – Rio Ngumoha's breakthrough is huge

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Rio Ngumoha made an instant impact against Newcastle United earlier this season(Image: 2025 Getty Images)

Former Liverpool striker Djibril Cisse has claimed that Rio Ngumoha's breakthrough into the first team this season gives him hope that his own son, who also plays for the Reds, can one day make an impact at the club.

Ngumoha burst onto the scene at 16 thanks to his stunning late winner against Newcastle United in early August, which secured a vital three points for the Reds in a 3-2 victory.

Ngumoha, who has since turned 17, has now been included in Liverpool's Champions League squad, at the expense of stars like Federico Chiesa, as he looks to continue his rapid rise this season.



Cisse, 44, told Ladbrokes that Ngumoha's emergence spells positivity for those in Liverpool's academy.

"To be honest, Rio Ngumoha's emergence is a sign of the new football; if you're good, even if you're young, you're going to have a chance," Cisse said.

Djibril Cisse made 82 appearances for Liverpool(Image: 2005 Getty Images)

"You know, nowadays - even at a club like Liverpool - it's not about how old you are, it's about how good you are...

It's good for me because my son, Prince Kobe, is currently playing for the club, so I'm happy that the manager trusts young players."

Ngumoha's speedy rise has fans and all those connected with the club buzzing that the ex-Chelsea youth star can become the real deal at the Reds.

However, club icon John Barnes has pleaded with those expecting further magical moments from the youngster to let Ngumoha's career develop organically, warning against too much too soon.

"Let him grow slowly," Barnes said.

Let's not put too much expectation on him, and Liverpool will handle him well.

Prince Kobe with his mother, Jude Cisse, upon signing his deal at Liverpool(Image: Jude Cisse, Instagram)

"He's not going to be a starter for Liverpool anytime soon.

But to involve him in the squad, keep his feet on the ground, let him grow slowly, he's at the right club for that because Liverpool know how to handle their youngsters."

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Ngumoha's late show against the Magpies came after the Reds had let a two-goal lead slip, with strikes from Ryan Gravenberch and Hugo Ekitike looking to have claimed the points for Slot's side.