Arne Slot ‘already has the new Sadio Mane at Liverpool’
Sadio Mane was a major hit at Liverpool, and his success may be replicated by a player rising through the academy.
Liverpool are in a very good spot heading into the Premier League campaign, with an excellent first-team squad and several young players coming through.
Joshua Sonni-Lambie is one of many highly-rated players who will be expected to break into the first team in due course, though there are many others who could make the jump.
One of those possesses similar attributes to former Anfield hero Mane, and if he can become even half of the player that he has, the Reds have a star on their hands.
Rio Ngumoha can be a superstar at Liverpool
Rio Ngumoha featured in Liverpool’s 3-1 win over Preston in pre-season, and has already caught the eye of many at just 16 years old.
The teenager created the opening goal against Paul Heckingbottom’s side and stood out throughout the time he was on the pitch.
Similarly to Mane, Ngumoha can feature anywhere across the front three, but his game stretches far beyond just versatility.
| Liverpool U18 | Games | Goals | Assists |
| Ngumoha | 18 | 1 | 4 |
Electric pace, an excellent ball-carrying ability, and a level of composure in his game which will only grow with age.
Ngumoha is one of the highest-rated talents in English football, and while he is far from the finished article, the path to follow in Mane’s footsteps is certainly evident.
With an improvement on his final ball and physicality, it will not be long before Arne Slot occasionally turns to the teenager, who has an incredibly bright future ahead of him.
Liverpool must take advantage of youth this season
After winning the Premier League last season, Liverpool will be keen to add another trophy to their cabinet this campaign, at the very least.
While there is a very strong first team present at Anfield, these youngsters cannot be overlooked.
Players like Ngumoha can have a real impact in certain situations, and Slot will already be fully aware of the potential they have.
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