Cody Gakpo's Liverpool Situation Under Scrutiny as Transfer Speculation Grows
Former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen has publicly discussed Cody Gakpo's circumstances at Liverpool, implying the Dutch forward could contemplate a future departure from Anfield in pursuit of fresh opportunities. Gakpo, who joined Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023, has accumulated 48 goals in 162 appearances for the Reds, playing a pivotal role in their Premier League title victory under manager Arne Slot.
Current Form and Playing Time at Liverpool
Since Slot assumed leadership in 2024, Gakpo has maintained consistent involvement in the squad, starting 20 Premier League matches this season. However, his goal-scoring output has notably declined, with only seven goals across all competitions and five in the league, his last league strike occurring in early January against Fulham. Despite this dip, Liverpool secured Gakpo's commitment in August by extending his contract, reinforcing his long-term association with the club.
Rene Meulensteen's analysis highlights Gakpo's contentment with the Dutch coaching staff at Liverpool, including Slot, suggesting no immediate issues. In an interview with BetGoat, Meulensteen elaborated, "Cody Gakpo likes it at Liverpool with the Dutch coaching staff there, with Arne Slot and everything, there shouldn't be any issue."
Tactical Insights and Potential Weaknesses
Meulensteen pointed out that Gakpo's reduced playing frequency compared to last season might affect his confidence. He described Gakpo's preferred style of cutting inside from the left flank to shoot as both a strength and a limitation. "He's not the greatest at going on the outside and putting a cross in or a cut back. So he likes to come inside. When the opposition sees that, they analyse that, they double it up, and then it becomes a bit of a problem," Meulensteen explained.
The coach further noted that Gakpo, along with other Liverpool players like Mohamed Salah, has not reached previous performance heights this campaign. This collective struggle could prompt Liverpool to consider team revamps, potentially making Gakpo a candidate for transfer. "It could well be that maybe Gakpo is the one that might be looking for another challenge. Who knows?" Meulensteen speculated.
National Team Performance and Overall Assessment
Despite club form concerns, Gakpo remains a key figure for the Netherlands national team, where he consistently excels. Meulensteen affirmed, "He's still a good player, very important for the Dutch national team as well. And every time he's played for the Dutch national team, he's been doing really, really well." This duality underscores the complexity of Gakpo's situation, balancing domestic challenges with international success.
The ongoing speculation around Gakpo's future adds intrigue to Liverpool's strategic planning, as they navigate squad dynamics and performance issues in the competitive football landscape.
