Centre-Back Signs New Contract with Liverpool | OneFootball

Airoboma Signs First Professional Deal with Liverpool

Liverpool have confirmed that Emmanuel Airoboma has signed his first professional contract with the club. As confirmed by Liverpoolfc.com.

The 18-year-old defender, who has been with the Academy since U12 level, has developed into a versatile option across the backline. Primarily a centre-back, Airoboma can also feature at right full-back when required.

A regular in the U18 squad last term, he will now take the next step in his career by joining Rob Page’s U21 group for the 2025-26 season.

“Emmanuel has worked tirelessly to reach this point,” said one Academy coach. “He’s a player with strong leadership qualities and a real determination to improve.”

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The club’s commitment to developing young players has been one of its defining features over the past decade, and Emmanuel Airoboma’s progression is another reminder that the pathway to the first team remains open for those who work hard.

Airoboma’s versatility is a huge asset. Liverpool value defenders who can slot into multiple positions, and his ability to cover centre-back and right full-back gives the Academy and eventually the senior setup much-needed flexibility. With Trent Alexander-Arnold often stepping into midfield under Arne Slot’s system, having a reliable defensive option capable of stepping in when needed could prove invaluable in the coming years.

Photo: IMAGO

Fans will also be pleased to see another grassroots recruit making waves, reinforcing the club’s policy of seeking out and developing local and national talent rather than purely buying ready-made stars. The jump to U21 football will be the biggest challenge of Airoboma’s career so far, but if he impresses at that level, a loan move could soon follow to accelerate his development.

For a club that has spent heavily this summer, producing its own players keeps the long-term vision sustainable. Supporters will hope Airoboma can follow in the footsteps of Conor Bradley and Jarell Quansah in making the leap from Academy prospect to first-team regular.

Image: Imago