Amara Nallo: Arne Slot Calls Up 19-Year-Old Defender to Training

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has promoted promising 19-year-old centre-back Amara Nallo to first-team training sessions ahead of the crucial Premier League clash with Burnley.[4]

Nallo, born on November 18, 2006, joined Liverpool's academy from West Ham United in September 2023 after signing scholarship terms with the Hammers earlier that year.[1][2] The English defender of Sierra Leonean descent quickly impressed, becoming a regular for the Reds' U21 side following strong performances with the U18s.[1] He earned praise from U21 manager Barry Lewtas for his showings in the Premier League International Cup and featured in the EFL Trophy.[2]

Internationally, Nallo debuted for England U18s in March 2024 during the Pinatar Super Cup, followed by his U19 bow in October 2024 against the Netherlands, and a U20 appearance in November 2025 versus Japan.[2] His passion for defending shines through, with the academy product citing leadership and studying Virgil van Dijk as key influences.[1]

Nallo made his senior debut on January 29, 2025, substituting for Jayden Danns in the 83rd minute of a UEFA Champions League match against PSV Eindhoven. Tragically, he received a direct red card just four minutes later for denying a goalscoring opportunity in a 3-2 defeat.[1][2]

This call-up by Slot signals confidence in Nallo's potential amid Liverpool's academy overhaul, where young centre-backs like him may face loan opportunities. It comes as the club eyes youth development, having generated over £200m from academy sales.[5] With injuries and rotation needs, Nallo's physicality and composure could earn him a bench spot against Burnley, marking another step in his rapid rise at Anfield.[4]

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