Rio Ngumoha says Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal reshapes youth football

In a quiet corner of Anfield’s training ground, 18‑year‑old Liverpool forward Rio Ngumoha spoke about Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, saying the Spaniard’s style has reshaped how young players approach the game as England prepare for November Nations League matches against Croatia and Spain.

He told The Independent that Yamal’s confidence, freedom and performances at such a young age have inspired the next generation.

Ngumoha’s remarks arrive ahead of England’s November Nations League fixtures against Croatia and Spain.

England manager Thomas Tuchel has named the Liverpool winger in his November squad after encouraging club displays, potentially giving him a chance to face Yamal when England meet Spain.

The forward added that Yamal has changed football for young players, calling him extraordinary and one of the best in the world.

He believes the Spaniard’s displays show youngsters should not fear expressing themselves or taking responsibility, encouraging them to play with confidence.

‘Seeing what he can do at such a young age inspires me and all the other young players to play freely,’ Ngumoha said, adding that Yamal ‘plays as if the pitch were his own’.

England November fixtures

England will face Croatia on 12 November before travelling to the Metropolitano for the Spain game on 15 November, a match that could pit the two wingers against each other.

At 18, Ngumoha is the youngest member of Tuchel’s November England squad and has already earned his senior international debut.

Yamal, an established Barcelona and Spain regular, would offer Ngumoha a chance to test himself against a player he openly admires.