One of Liverpool’s most promising academy players, who once scored 90 goals in a calendar year, has shared his experience of being the son of a Premier League cult hero.
Keyrol Figueroa, an 18-year-old forward representing the United States at youth level, has gained a strong reputation within Liverpool’s academy after several standout seasons. In May last year, he signed his first professional contract and is determined to reach the highest level of football.
In an interview with Liverpool’s official website, the Honduras-born Figueroa reflected on growing up with his father, Maynor Figueroa, a former Premier League player for Wigan Athletic and Hull City who later played for MLS side Colorado Rapids.
“I spent some time in America, but I wanted to pursue my football career, so I convinced my parents to bring me back to England to look for clubs,” Keyrol said. “Becoming a footballer felt inevitable for me. It was the life I grew up with—experiencing my dad’s games and the professional environment.
“I dreamed of playing at the highest level, not only for myself but also to give back for the sacrifices my parents made both inside and outside of football.”
Since joining Liverpool in 2018, Figueroa has identified his key strengths as his pace, power, and finishing ability.
“I’m the type of player who thrives on scoring goals. If I play well but don’t score, it affects my mood. Scoring has always come naturally to me, and it’s what I expect of myself,” he added.
Keyrol’s father, Maynor Figueroa, made 179 league appearances for Wigan between 2008 and 2015 and is remembered for scoring one of the Premier League’s greatest free-kicks during a match against Stoke City—a goal that won the BBC Goal of the Season award in 2009/10.
Reflecting on that iconic goal, Keyrol said, “I told my dad that one day I’d have the chance to replicate it, and I’d give it a try. But he can’t score bicycle kicks for a living, so it’s fine.”
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