
Anfield Index
·25 juillet 2025
The Two ‘Insane’ Liverpool Stars That Have Impressed in Training – Revealed

In partnership with
Yahoo sportsAnfield Index
·25 juillet 2025
When Liverpool spent a record-breaking £116 million on Florian Wirtz earlier this summer, there was immediate buzz around the deal. But even that fee is beginning to look like a bargain, judging by what’s coming out of the Reds’ training camp. David Lynch, speaking to Dave Davis for Anfield Index, has revealed that Wirtz is already living up to the hype and then some.
“Wirtz just looks so outstanding. His touch, his appreciation of space, and it already seems like the players are enjoying playing alongside him,” said Lynch, clearly impressed with the German international’s early sessions.
For a squad packed with Premier League winners, it says a lot that Wirtz is already catching the eye in such a manner. His ability to read the game, anticipate movement and operate in tight spaces is drawing comparisons with some of the greats to have worn the red shirt in recent years.
And Lynch didn’t stop there. “I’m so excited by him and I’ve said for a while that he will be the best player that moves this summer. Even if Alexander Isak moves, I think that point still stands because he is on that level.” Strong words, but based on what’s being reported, they don’t sound far-fetched.
While Wirtz is rightly dominating headlines, another name quietly rising is Rio Ngumoha. At just 16, the winger has been included in Arne Slot’s pre-season plans and is making the most of the opportunity. “Slot has taken him on pre-season so he obviously knows how good he is,” Lynch stated.
The former Chelsea youth prospect has been identified as one to watch, and Lynch added: “For his age, he is absolutely insane.” That’s no small praise for a teenager who is still waiting to make his senior debut.
Ngumoha’s development will need careful handling, but there’s clearly a belief that he can play a meaningful role in the domestic cups this season. “I’d like to see Liverpool with five senior forwards + Ngumoha, so that he gets a lot of domestic cup games.” A smart strategy, especially with Liverpool competing on multiple fronts again.
Lynch also floated a tactical idea: “I’d like to see him take on the Chiesa role, to be honest.” It’s a role that would demand energy, dribbling and intelligence — attributes Ngumoha already shows in abundance.
What’s becoming clear is that Arne Slot is not resting on the laurels of a title-winning debut season. Instead, he’s looking to evolve and refresh the squad with a balance of elite talent and young promise. Wirtz brings a new dimension to Liverpool’s midfield and attacking transitions. Ngumoha adds an unpredictable spark. Both fit the manager’s high-intensity, dynamic system perfectly.
Slot’s decision to integrate younger players so early into the pre-season fold suggests he’s willing to reward talent, regardless of age. And for fans, that’s exciting. It’s not just about one or two new faces — it’s about setting a new tone.
Photo: IMAGO
With Wirtz already impressing and Ngumoha knocking on the door, Liverpool look like a team in tune with both the present and the future. The hunger after last season’s success hasn’t faded. If anything, it’s sharpened.
Credit to David Lynch for providing a revealing insight into what’s happening behind the scenes at the AXA Training Centre. His conversation with Dave Davis on Anfield Index gives supporters plenty to get excited about as Slot’s second campaign looms large.