Liverpool forward Rio Ngumoha has named Mohamed Salah as one of the best players in world football and his personal favorite, highlighting the Egyptian’s influence after training and working alongside him at Anfield.
The 17-year-old, who joined Liverpool from Chelsea around 18 months ago, selected Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Kylian Mbappé as his picks for the top players in the game right now. For the Premier League era, he praised Salah, Thierry Henry, and Ronaldo as among the greatest.
In a recent interview with ESPN, Ngumoha was asked for his current favorite wingers to watch in the Premier League and chose Salah, Jeremy Doku (Manchester City), and Noni Madueke (Arsenal). The piece notes similarities in style between Ngumoha and Doku, particularly in quick feet and rapid changes of direction.
Ngumoha has impressed at senior level under manager Arne Slot this season, benefiting from the pathway Liverpool maintains for academy talents. Slot has commented on the youngster’s playing time, noting he has had the most minutes among 17-year-olds in the Premier League, underscoring his quality and the club’s trust in youth development.
The interview reflects Ngumoha’s admiration for elite attackers, with Salah standing out as a key influence. Liverpool’s approach continues to provide opportunities for young players like Ngumoha, who has dazzled with his pace and technical ability when given chances in the first team.