Slot's Shocking Ngumoha Revelation Spells Trouble for Salah's Liverpool Future
Although Mohamed Salah faced criticism for another lackluster performance in Liverpool's dramatic win against Nottingham Forest, 17-year-old sensation Rio Ngumoha received glowing reviews from coach Arne Slot, potentially setting up an intriguing competition ahead.
The teenager entered the match as Salah's substitute at the City Ground on Sunday and immediately brought fresh energy to Liverpool's struggling offensive play. Ngumoha was central to what appeared to be Liverpool's decisive moment in the 89th minute, though Alexis Mac Allister's strike was ruled out due to a handball infringement.
The Argentinian midfielder ultimately became the match-winner in added time, securing three crucial points for the reigning English champions in a contest they barely deserved to claim. Despite the late theatrics, Ngumoha's remarkable brief appearance captured everyone's attention, particularly impressing Slot.
Slot: Ngumoha's Development Creates Opportunities for Extended Playing Time
Slot: Ngumoha's Development Creates Opportunities for Extended Playing Time
Ngumoha needed just 12 minutes on the field to create Liverpool's clearest scoring opportunity, operating down Salah's usual right-wing position. The English youngster charged directly at Forest's left-back Neco Williams, bamboozled him with skillful feints, then delivered a precise cross directly to Hugo Ekitiké's head.
Although the attempt failed to put the away team ahead, it certainly caught Slot's eye.
"He possesses remarkable talent, otherwise, at just 17 years old, you wouldn't see him accumulating as many Premier League minutes as he has, especially at Liverpool," the Dutch manager commented post-match. "I believe no other 17-year-old has logged as many Premier League minutes as he has this season.
"This demonstrates the level of talent he possesses and what we believe he can achieve. He continues developing consistently, which explains his increasing playing time."
Rio Ngumoha – Performance Overview for 2025–26
Rio Ngumoha – Performance Overview for 2025–26
Ngumoha has featured in 15 matches for Liverpool this campaign, with nine appearances coming in England's premier division. The winger made his mark by netting the decisive goal in Liverpool's thrilling 3–2 triumph over Newcastle United in August, establishing himself as the club's youngest-ever Premier League scorer.
While Premier League chances have been sporadic for Ngumoha, his contributions in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup have sufficiently demonstrated his match-altering capabilities on both flanks. When Liverpool requires inspiration, the teenager provides the energy and creative spark needed in attack.
Though far from the complete player, Ngumoha radiates class and promise to such an extent that he now poses a challenge to an established club icon.
How Ngumoha's Emergence Could Create Challenges for Salah
How Ngumoha's Emergence Could Create Challenges for Salah
This campaign has proven disappointing for Salah. Following an outstanding 2024–25 season, the Egyptian forward has significantly underperformed relative to expectations. Combined with his public disagreement with both the club and Slot in December, Salah has attracted negative attention.
His on-field displays continue working against him, with his City Ground showing serving as another illustration of his 2025–26 difficulties. During his 77-minute appearance, the winger generated just one scoring chance and failed to register any shots, unable to make an impact against a relegation-threatened opponent.
Mohamed Salah – Performance Overview for 2025–26
Mohamed Salah – Performance Overview for 2025–26
Across 28 matches this season, Salah has scored merely seven goals—with only four coming in Premier League action. The 33-year-old's form dip previously led Slot to bench him, sparking the tension between the star player and his manager.
However, Slot hasn't been the sole Liverpool figure questioning Salah this season. Club icon Jamie Carragher has consistently criticized the forward, offering pointed praise for Ngumoha following Liverpool's Forest victory.
"Rio Ngumoha entered in the 77th minute and accomplished more in 15 minutes than [Cody] Gakpo and Salah managed throughout the entire match," Carragher observed. "This youngster transformed the game. He deserves to start matches now. He's genuinely that talented."
Whether Slot decides to favor Ngumoha over Salah remains uncertain, but pressure continues building on the Egyptian international, and his previous Liverpool achievements may not provide sufficient protection.