'Clueless' Arne Slot faces the music for ignoring Rio Ngumoha in Liverpool loss
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Liverpool IconLiverpool FC NewsFeaturesArne SlotArne Slot named Rio Ngumoha among Liverpool's substitutes against Galatasaray, but he did not turn to the talented youngster when the Reds were chasing an equalizerRio Ngumoha was an unused subtitute against Galatasaray(Image: Getty Images)Arne Slot faced criticism from Liverpool's supporters for not turning to Rio Ngumoha during Tuesday's Champions League loss to Galatasaray.Ngumoha was named among the substitutes in Turkey, but was not used as Slot introduced Jeremie Frimpong, Cody Gakpo and Andy Robertson in the second half instead. Many Liverpool supporters aired their disappointment at Ngumoha not being brought on — particularly after he produced such a bright performance in the Reds' last game, away to Wolves in the FA Cup last Friday.One slightly hyperbolic supporter wrote on social media: "Arne Slot has to be one of the most clueless managers I’ve ever seen.READ MORE: Dominik Szoboszlai paid ultimate compliment after best season for Liverpool yet"You’re chasing a goal.
On the bench sits your most exciting talent in Rio Ngumoha, the same player who just delivered a Man of the Match performance in his last game. He's completely out of his depth."Another supporter wrote: "Rio Ngumoha is more than good enough to get 20 minutes against Galatasaray."I’ve never seen the kid show an ounce of fear.
Bringing Gakpo on ahead of him is just poor management."Arne Slot faced criticism for his substitutions against Galatasaray(Image: 2026 UEFA)A third said: "Andy Robertson and Rio Ngumoha looked miles ahead of everyone else during the week [against Wolves], and yet they’re both on the bench tonight."I understand Rio to an extent because he’s still a kid, but how can he not even get 20 minutes there? This manager boggles my mind."Slot's refusal to use Ngumoha off the bench was made more surprising by the head coach's pre-game comments, when he said that the youngster was "close" to retaining his spot in the starting line-up.The Dutchman said: "[He was] close [to starting].