Liverpool could face big problem as FIFA take step towards radical new rule change

Liverpool could be hit hard should FIFA roll out a new mandatory requirement for clubs to field at least one homegrown player from their U20 or U21 teams at all times. Officials are said to be considering proposals looking at the move, with a consultation process regarding all relevant stakeholders put forward.

This has been unanimously approved by the FIFA council, and is set for submission over the course of the next year. Sources have told the Athletic that while nothing is concrete, positive discussions have been held between each of the six confederation presidents this week.

It is thought to be in favour of aiding player development worldwide. Discussions will also determine the definition of who constitutes as a homegrown player, in a bid to ensure younger players are involved in regular football. Current Premier League rules stipulate that squads must have “no more than 17” players who are not homegrown in their 25-player squads.

That doesn’t include academy talents, who are eligible. It also does not determine how homegrown players are utilised by said clubs.

The proposition could affect how freely clubs are able to operate in transfer windows, given such players allow pure profit when moved on. This has been allowed outfits to meet PSR rules and avoid any unsavoury breaches and the penalties that come with them.

While Burnley and Leeds United have failed to award a single minute to homegrown U21 players in the Premier League this season, meaning that they would be hit hardest by new rules if green-lighted, Liverpool could also be stung.

The Reds have only afforded 320 minutes to players of that category in the English top flight across 2025/26 so far – Rio Ngumoha making up the bulk of that with 306 minutes on the pitch alone. Trey Nyoni makes up the rest of those minutes with his respective 14.

While the rule is highly unlikely to be rolled out ahead of next season, it could offer Liverpool plenty of food for thought about how they go about their business in future seasons. On the flip side, it could pay dividends in the progression of the likes of Ngumoha.

The winger has enjoyed a breakthrough season with the Reds at just 17, with two goals from 26 appearances across all competitions at senior level. And with Mohamed Salah set to leave the club this summer, they could lean on the teenager even more next season.

However, Joe Cole has warned the club not to overwhelm the youngster. He told Goal: “I think Liverpool, now [Hugo] Ekitike is out for a long time, there are holes there.

“He’s not going to start in the next season, I’m sure. Salah’s leaving, so it might be big for him [Ngumoha] to go straight in.

“I’m sure they’ll sign another player who can fit the mould of both of those types of players. If you’ve got that talent in your club, you do have a plan for him.

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Rio Ngumoha has thrived this season(Image: PA)

“They sit down and they watch him every day. They know the lad’s mentality. They know whether they want to put that pressure on him from the start of next season to be the main man at Liverpool.

“Or do they want to take it off and just keep him developing nicely? Only Arne Slot and his team and the people upstairs will know that.”

He added: “I think it’s a case of developing. It’s about the family unit around him and the structure the club put around him.

“It’s about not overexposing him, no over-reliance on him. I think that’s the responsibility. The club, the family, and all the people around the player. It’s a tough one, but I think we’re much more equipped to do that nowadays.

“We understand a little bit more about developing players’ mindset, mentality, and what players need. I’m sure Rio has got that. He’s exciting to watch as well.”