Liverpool have given 17-year-old defender Billy Koumetio his first professional contract with the club.
The young French defender arrived at the Kirkby Academy from French National league side US Orleans in 2018 and has become a key player for Liverpool’s youth teams. He was also a member of the U19 UEFA Youth League squad.
Billy Koumetio Commits His Future to Liverpool
First Team Recognition
Koumetio’s impressive performances for the Reds’ U18 side last season earned him his place in a Jurgen Klopp matchday squad aged just 16 for the first time. It came in the Carabao Cup tie against Arsenal in October 2019, a match Liverpool won on penalties after a 5-5 draw in 90 minutes.
Koumetio has also found himself on the bench for two Champions League group stage matches, away at Napoli and at home to Red Bull Salzburg. Despite not making an appearance, his presence on the bench at such a tender age is proof of how highly regarded he is by the coaching staff at Anfield.
The France U18 international centre-back has continued his progression throughout the season to earn his first professional deal with the champions. Koumetio isn’t the first prospect the club have tied down recently.
Before the season was brought to an early conclusion, Koumetio featured in the young Reds’ 6-1 win over local rivals Everton in the U18 Premier League and also their 4-3 victory over Manchester United.
Koumetio, who was formerly part of Olympique Lyonnais academy in his hometown, is known for his calm style of play at the heart of defence, and being equally adept on either side of a defensive pairing, with a strong range of passing out from his position.
