The Gakpo conundrum facing Liverpool
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The Gakpo conundrum facing LiverpoolImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Cody Gakpo has scored five World Cup goals in seven games for the NetherlandsIn the aftermath of scoring twice for the Netherlands against Sweden, Cody Gakpo was asked about his role for his country compared with how he is deployed at Liverpool."A good question. "It's different where the coach wants me to be, the freedom that I have," he added, before stopping himself from saying any more.Those latest World Cup goals for Gakpo came in a week when Liverpool have signed another winger that primarily plays down the left - Victor Munoz from Osasuna for £34.5m.The Reds have also expressed interest in paying a package of £86m to RB Leipzig for highly rated 19-year-old forward Yan Diomande, who can play on both wings.So what do the possible arrival of two players who can play in Gakpo's position mean for the 27-year-old's future at Anfield?How does Gakpo fit in at Liverpool?In Liverpool's title-winning campaign under Arne Slot in 2024-25, Gakpo scored 18 goals and provided seven assists across 49 games in all competitions.It led to him signing a long-term deal at Anfield last summer, which by all accounts he was extremely happy to do.Last season however, despite playing three more matches, his numbers fell to nine goals and six assists.During a difficult campaign, he was far from the only Liverpool player to be below par, but he will know those numbers will have to improve.
That could be good news for Gakpo.With 50 goals in 180 appearances, Gakpo is only the second Dutchman after Dirk Kuyt to reach a half-century for Liverpool and has usually been first choice when fit.Liverpool still view him as a proven attacker in the Premier League who can function in different ways, and given Hugo Ekitike could be missing until 2027 with a ruptured Achilles, his versatility in being able to play centrally offers options for Iraola.What could be next for Gakpo?Following the departure of Mohamed Salah, at least one more attacking signing is expected at Anfield this summer - and the pursuit of Diomande is heating up. Talented teenager Rio Ngumoha is also set to play a more prominent role, while Florian Wirtz played off the left for Liverpool at times last season and is featuring there for Germany in the World Cup.How Iraola views Wirtz's best position might well determine the future for Gakpo in the new head coach's blueprint.Added competition could allow Gakpo to thrive, as it did when Luis Diaz was at Liverpool.
His goals against Sweden on Sunday offered a timely reminder of his quality, particularly in a game where club team-mate Alexander Isak failed to score.The first was a simple tap-in as he arrived at the back post while the second was a trademark cut in from the left before drilling home a right-footed shot.Figure caption, Watch Cody Gakpo's second goal against SwedenThose close to the Dutch national team speak of a unified squad and, after a difficult domestic season, Gakpo has started the tournament impressively.His World Cup record - including the 2022 tournament - is impressive, with five goals in seven games. "He works so hard for the team, he's disciplined and his quality stands out - his crosses, his assists, his goals."Continuing to impress at the World Cup may well enhance Liverpool's desire to retain Gakpo for at least another season.