Cody Gakpo on Liverpool’s Mentality in the Title Race | OneFootball

Cody Gakpo Highlights Key Liverpool Title Race Advantage

Liverpool’s quest for a record-equalling 20th league title has entered its most crucial stage. After enduring several near misses in recent years, Arne Slot’s men find themselves leading the charge in a title race that feels different from previous seasons.

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Gakpo’s Realism in the Title Race

Cody Gakpo has been one of Liverpool’s standout performers this season, netting 16 goals in 38 appearances. His form has played a crucial role in keeping the Reds at the top, but he remains cautious about what lies ahead.

Speaking to Liverpool Echo, Gakpo shared a revealing insight into the team’s mentality: “We know we’re not supposed to look at them in a way that makes us think ‘oh, if they win, we have to win’ or that we have to win every game. But, obviously, we cannot lie if we say that we haven’t noticed City are a little bit more struggling compared to recent years.”

For years, Liverpool have had to maintain near-perfection just to keep up with Manchester City. But this season, the reigning champions have shown signs of vulnerability, dropping points more frequently than in previous campaigns.

A Liverpool Side in Control

The difference this time around is that Liverpool are dictating the pace. Unlike previous title battles where they chased City down, this season, they have a degree of control. Gakpo, however, refuses to let that lead to complacency.

“It is how it is, and we have to just stay focused on ourselves and try to keep winning every game because everybody knows how hard it can be, and every game is a difficult one,” he explained.

With 10 matches remaining, Liverpool require a maximum of seven wins to secure the title. The pressure is immense, but Gakpo and his teammates are determined to deliver.

A Mental Battle as Much as a Physical One

Liverpool’s ability to stay composed in the final stretch could define their season. They have already overcome key injuries, including Gakpo’s recent knock against Everton, and their squad depth has been tested. The psychological edge of being the frontrunners is something they must embrace rather than fear.

As Gakpo put it: “We have to win as many games as possible and then hopefully we win the title at the end.”

For Liverpool, this is about more than just numbers—it is about exorcising the ghosts of previous seasons and ensuring that this campaign ends with silverware.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool supporters have been here before—top of the table, controlling their own destiny, yet haunted by past near-misses. The scars of 2019 and 2022 still linger, where Klopp’s men reached the heights of brilliance only to fall short against a relentless Manchester City.

What’s different this time? There’s a shift in dynamics. City, though still formidable, are not the machine they once were. Pep Guardiola’s side looks fallible, a reality that Liverpool can exploit. Gakpo’s words reflect a squad that acknowledges this advantage but refuses to take anything for granted.

The challenge now is to maintain composure. The squad must not be drawn into watching City’s every move, a trap that could lead to unnecessary pressure. Instead, the focus must remain inward—winning games, keeping players fit, and ensuring that any setbacks do not derail momentum.

Liverpool fans will hope that this campaign marks the moment where past heartbreaks transform into triumph. With the final stretch approaching, the belief remains strong that this time, it could finally be their year.