Rio Ngumoha has explained exactly why he decided to leave Chelsea for Liverpool, and his comments will make uncomfortable reading for those at Stamford Bridge.
The teenager was regarded as one of the most exciting young talents in Chelsea's academy before deciding to continue his development at Anfield. It was a huge blow for the Blues, who had hoped to keep hold of another promising Cobham graduate.
Now, Ngumoha has revealed that Liverpool's plans for his development made the decision a straightforward one, with the youngster believing they offered him a clearer pathway into senior football.
Rio Ngumoha explains why he chose Liverpool over Chelsea
Ngumoha has made no secret of the fact that he wanted a fresh challenge when deciding to leave Chelsea.
Speaking about the move, the winger explained that Liverpool were the best place for him to fulfill his potential.
"I feel like I needed a new challenge. I feel like if I stayed at Chelsea... not saying that I wouldn't have got to the first team as quickly, because I believe in my ability, but I feel like Liverpool just gave me a new pathway," he said, via The Independent.
"The plan that they set for me was straightforward really. For me, it was a no-brainer going to Liverpool, and they just said if I prove myself, because they know how much ability I had, then they know that I would definitely be a first-team player and definitely a star for them in the making."
Clearly Liverpool made him feel more wanted, and leaving Cobham was a decision the teenager doesn't regret.
Chelsea must learn from another damaging academy exit
Chelsea have invested heavily in their academy and regularly promote the quality of the players coming through Cobham.
However, keeping the best youngsters is becoming just as important as developing them.
Ngumoha's recent interview suggest Liverpool were able to offer something Chelsea couldn't: a place to fulfill his potential.
That should concern the Blues' higher ups. There is little point producing exciting young talents if they ultimately believe their best chance of becoming first-team regulars lies elsewhere.
Of course, promising a teenager that he can become a star is one thing, actually delivering on that promise is another; just ask Estevao.
Ngumoha still has plenty to prove, and Liverpool will expect him to continue working hard, but his recent England call-up — something Cole Palmer hasn't managed — is definitely another big step in the right direction.
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