Liverpool’s rising star Rio Ngumoha has officially signed his inaugural professional contract at Anfield, yet his international allegiance remains undecided, according to Soccernet.ng.
As these developments unfold, the Nigerian Football Federation is closely monitoring the situation.
Born in London to Nigerian parents, Ngumoha celebrated his 17th birthday this month and was promptly rewarded with a three-year contract after making a remarkable breakthrough under Jürgen Klopp’s management.
He etched his name into Liverpool’s winner-st-jamess-park/” title=”…s …n-Rooted Star Shatters Record with Stunning Last-Minute … in Thrilling 3-2 Victory at St James's Park”>record books by netting a sensational 100th-minute winner against Newcastle in August, becoming the youngest goalscorer in the club’s history.
Dominik Szoboszlai was the only Liverpool outfield player who didn’t touch the ball in the build-up to Rio Ngumoha’s winner v Newcastle…
But his dummy created it pic.twitter.com/ld3I4M90Sm
– Premier League (@premierleague) August 28, 2025
This memorable goal, along with his Champions League debut shortly thereafter, highlighted his impressive transition from Chelsea’s youth ranks to Liverpool’s first team.
While England may currently hold an advantage in securing his international future, Nigeria remains a formidable contender to attract Ngumoha into the Super Eagles’ fold.
Does Rio Ngumoha Qualify to Represent Nigeria?
Though Ngumoha was born in London in 2008, his Nigerian heritage through his parents grants him eligibility to play for the Super Eagles.
According to FIFA regulations, players holding dual nationality can switch their national team allegiance provided they have not yet played in a competitive senior international fixture. Since Ngumoha’s experience is limited to England’s youth squads, Nigeria still has a viable opportunity to secure his commitment.
Is Ngumoha Eligible to Switch to Nigeria Despite England Youth Caps?
Despite representing England at youth levels, Ngumoha remains qualified to play for Nigeria. FIFA’s eligibility rules allow a player to change national teams if they have not appeared in a senior competitive match.
This leaves the door open for the Liverpool prodigy to potentially wear the green and white jersey of the Super Eagles in the future.
While the English Football Association will aim to secure Ngumoha’s long-term allegiance, the Nigerian Football Federation has a proven track record of successfully recruiting dual-national players with Nigerian roots, such as Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi.
What Attributes Could Ngumoha Bring to the Super Eagles?
Ngumoha’s speed and clinical finishing make him an ideal fit for the Super Eagles’ evolving attacking lineup. Capturing his commitment early would signal Nigeria’s ambition to integrate fresh talent into their squad.
Ultimately, the choice lies with Ngumoha himself. While signing a professional contract with Liverpool secures his club career, it also intensifies the competition between England and Nigeria to win his international allegiance.
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