Arne Slot explains why “special” Rio Ngumoha still isn’t playing much

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Rio Ngumoha‘s lack of minutes for Liverpool have bemused some, but Arne Slot has explained the youngster’s situation. The 17-year-old is yet to start a Premier League game in 2025/26, however, despite fellow wingers Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo struggling for form. • READ: Rio Ngumoha makes surprise Liverpool U21s return Ngumoha played for Liverpool’s U21s in their recent 2-1 friendly loss to OGC Nice, and speaking to reporters, Slot explained why he has featured so little for the first team of late.

“I think he has the most minutes of all 17-year-olds in the Premier League. “That also tells you something about his quality, because it’s not completely normal for a 17-year-old already to have as much playing time as he had.

There is plenty of sense in Slot’s treatment of Ngumoha, not wanting to overplay a young player at this level as he matures. “I’m always happy if a player makes his debut that he shows what we see on the training ground as well, so the fans could see it.” Chances should continue to come Ngumoha’s way sporadically, with a start in the FA Cup third round at home to Barnsley on January 12 making sense.