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Arne Slot has made a big decision on Rio Ngumoha after already handing the 16-year-old his first team debut this season.

Ngumoha’s transfer from Chelsea to Liverpool was one of the most talked-about academy moves in recent memory.

The 16-year-old winger, hailed as a generational talent, left Chelsea’s academy for Anfield in September 2024, after a five-step review process by the Premier League.

Chelsea’s frustration with the move is well-documented, with reports suggesting they feel they lost a key prospect to a Premier League rival.

The Blues were reportedly furious, even blocking Liverpool scouts from attending their youth games in response.

Despite this, the Premier League concluded that no rules were broken during the transfer process.

Ngumoha’s decision to leave Chelsea was influenced by Liverpool’s pathway for young players, which he believed offered better opportunities for first-team football?

This move has been seen as a significant coup for Liverpool.

And his rationale for making the switch has just been proved right

Arne Slot backs Rio Ngumoha

UEFA have confirmed that Arne Slot has opted to include Rio Ngumoha in his Champions League senior squad for the knockout phase.

This move follows the opening of a new registration window, allowing Ngumoha to participate after missing the group stage due to joining the club after the initial registration deadline.
Ngumoha takes the place of midfielder Tom Hill, who was part of Liverpool’s senior List A during the first half of the season but has since departed to join Harrogate Town on a permanent basis.

The Reds’ senior squad remains largely unchanged, with a total of 24 players registered for the knockout phase.

Additionally, Liverpool can draw upon an unlimited number of qualifying U21 players to supplement their roster thanks to UEFA’s List B concessions.

This development marks a significant milestone for Ngumoha, who will now have the opportunity to contribute to Liverpool’s European campaign.

His inclusion reflects the club’s confidence in his abilities and provides him with a platform to gain valuable experience at the highest level – and that there is indeed a pathway available for academy players at Anfield.

Potential Round of 16 Opponents:

Paris Saint-Germain

These teams will compete in knockout phase play-offs, with the winners advancing to face Liverpool or Barcelona in the Round of 16.

Champions League Knockout Stages Dates:

Knockout Phase Play-offs: February 11/12 and February 18/19, 2025

The Round of 16 draw is scheduled for February 21, 2025, which will determine Liverpool’s exact opponent.

Read More: Liverpool learn Rayan Cherki truth after Borussia Dortmund bid

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