The teenage winger had been heavily involved in the home side’s opening goal, providing the assist for Ryan Gravenberch’s stunning strike from distance.
But with Liverpool struggling to regain the lead at Anfield, head coach Arne Slot decided to make changes and introduce fresh options.
Liverpool supporters were left frustrated by the decision to substitute Rio Ngumoha.
Many found it difficult to understand why Ngumoha was taken off while Cody Gakpo remained on the pitch. The Dutch forward failed to register a shot and managed just one touch inside the opposition penalty area before eventually being substituted himself 11 minutes later.
It was therefore no surprise that sections of the Anfield crowd voiced their displeasure when Ngumoha was withdrawn in the 65th minute.
Although Liverpool’s hierarchy are unlikely to make any major decisions based solely on boos from supporters, the reaction highlighted a growing disconnect between the fans and the manager — a concerning situation for a club often viewed as being deeply tied to its manager.
Questions have also been raised about Slot’s decision-making throughout the campaign.
There may be explanations, whether it’s injuries, a lack of pace in wide areas, or misfortune in key matches. Still, with Ngumoha being Liverpool’s only naturally quick winger available — and arguably one of their brightest performers against Chelsea FC — many were puzzled by the decision to remove him shortly after the hour mark.
Slot may argue that he is protecting the 17-year-old’s development by not overusing him, but Liverpool have already managed his minutes carefully throughout the season. Given the team’s lack of attacking outlets, there appeared to be a strong case for allowing the youngster more time on the pitch.
While this may be just one example, critics feel it reflects a wider pattern of questionable decisions during the season, leading some to believe that Slot should not be completely safe from scrutiny over his future this summer.
