Sagna urges Liverpool to prioritise Ngumoha over high-profile Salah successor
Bacary Sagna tells Oddschecker that Rio Ngumoha has earned Anfield’s trust and warns against signings that could obstruct his development pathway.
Former Arsenal and Manchester City defender Bacary Sagna has advised Liverpool to rely on 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha as a primary replacement for Mo Salah, rather than pursuing a high-profile external signing. Speaking to Oddschecker, Sagna argued that the teenager is ready for regular starts and has already earned the trust of Anfield supporters, citing his confidence and ball-carrying ability as key assets for the club’s future.
The comments follow Liverpool manager Arne Slot’s decision to substitute Ngumoha during the recent draw against Chelsea. While Slot explained the change was due to a reported muscle concern, the move drew mixed reactions. Slot acknowledged that many supporters disagreed with the substitution, noting: “I knew this would be the reaction because he is such a good player.” Conversely, former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock offered a contrasting view, admitting he understood the tactical choice because Ngumoha “hadn’t really affected the game enough.”
Sagna explicitly dismissed the idea that Michael Olise should be viewed as the perfect Salah replacement. Instead, he placed his faith in the youth system. “If I had to choose someone to replace Salah at Liverpool, I would not buy someone special,” Sagna said. “I would give my confidence to Rio Ngumoha, and I would start him regularly.” He added that Liverpool are “not scared to let Mohammed Salah go” because they have “someone special” in Ngumoha who has been “proving he is a great player.”
Ngumoha, an England youth international, joined Liverpool from Chelsea in September 2024. Despite being described as still raw, his willingness to take responsibility and his confidence have made him a popular figure among fans during a difficult season for the club. Sagna warned that while Liverpool may still require additional forward options, a major signing should not obstruct Ngumoha’s development pathway or leave him watching from the bench.
The debate highlights the delicate balance Liverpool must strike as they prepare for life after Salah. Sagna’s point is that recruitment decisions must make room for Ngumoha’s progression rather than suffocate it. While the club may need another young, hungry, or versatile forward to help replace Salah’s output, the former defender insists that Ngumoha has shown enough to deserve immediate and consistent playing time.
