Frustrated forward faces biggest Liverpool test under Iraola | OneFootball

Gakpo remains central despite fresh competition

Cody Gakpo has reached another important stage of his Liverpool career. After producing two goals in the Netherlands’ emphatic World Cup victory over Sweden, attention quickly shifted from his international form to what comes next at club level as Andoni Iraola begins to shape Liverpool in his own image.

As reported by the BBC, Gakpo was asked whether his role for the Netherlands differs from the one he performs at Liverpool. His response hinted that there are subtle differences without revealing too much.

He then added:

Those comments arrive during an important summer at Anfield. Liverpool have already strengthened by signing Victor Munoz from Osasuna, while interest remains strong in RB Leipzig teenager Yan Diomande. With both players naturally operating from wide areas, competition for attacking places is only becoming more intense.

Yet increased competition does not automatically place Gakpo’s future in doubt. Instead, it reflects Liverpool’s determination to build greater depth after an inconsistent campaign that exposed the need for more attacking variety.

photo IMAGO

Iraola blueprint could unlock greater consistency

There is little debate over Gakpo’s quality. Since arriving from PSV Eindhoven following the 2022 World Cup, he has developed into one of Liverpool’s most reliable attacking options, particularly when deployed from the left.

His outstanding 2024/25 campaign demonstrated exactly what he can produce. Across 49 appearances in all competitions, Gakpo scored 18 goals and supplied seven assists as Liverpool secured the Premier League title. Those performances earned him a new long term contract, reflecting the club’s belief in his importance.

Last season was less productive. Despite featuring in more matches, his return dropped to nine goals and six assists during a campaign that saw several Liverpool players struggle to hit their usual standards.

Even so, context matters.

Liverpool’s attacking play often lacked fluency, while relationships across the front line were continually evolving. Gakpo’s partnership with Milos Kerkez on the left flank gradually improved, although there remained occasions when overlapping runs were not fully exploited.

With Kerkez now reunited with former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, Liverpool will hope that familiarity accelerates the full back’s development. Improved chemistry between left back and left winger could become one of the defining features of Iraola’s attacking structure.

For Gakpo, that offers opportunity rather than uncertainty.

Versatility strengthens Liverpool options

One reason Liverpool continue to value Gakpo so highly is his flexibility.

Although naturally most effective from the left, he is equally capable of operating through the middle when required. That versatility has become even more significant given Hugo Ekitike’s long term injury absence following a ruptured Achilles.

Across 180 appearances for Liverpool, Gakpo has reached 50 goals, becoming only the second Dutch player after Dirk Kuyt to reach that landmark for the club. Those numbers underline consistent productivity rather than fleeting form.

Meanwhile, Liverpool’s evolving attack presents several tactical possibilities.

Florian Wirtz has operated from the left for both club and country, Rio Ngumoha is expected to become increasingly involved with the senior squad, while further additions remain possible before the transfer window closes.

Rather than signalling the end of Gakpo’s Liverpool career, those arrivals may create healthier competition that allows Iraola to rotate more effectively across four competitions.

World Cup form strengthens Liverpool stance

If there were lingering doubts surrounding Gakpo after last season, his performances with the Netherlands have offered an emphatic response.

His first goal against Sweden showcased intelligent movement to arrive unmarked at the back post. His second demonstrated qualities Liverpool supporters know well, cutting inside from the left before driving a powerful finish beyond the goalkeeper.

Internationally, his record continues to impress.

Five goals across seven World Cup appearances, alongside 23 goals in 52 senior international matches, reflects a player who consistently delivers on football’s biggest stages.

His influence extends beyond performances on the pitch. Netherlands winger Crysencio Summerville highlighted Gakpo’s leadership within the squad, saying:

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk was equally complimentary following the 5-1 victory over Sweden.

There will inevitably be speculation linking Gakpo with clubs such as Tottenham Hotspur while Liverpool continue to reshape their forward line. Any deal would likely command well in excess of £60 million, representing a substantial profit on the initial £35 million fee paid to PSV Eindhoven.

For now, though, the evidence suggests Liverpool still see Gakpo as an important part of Iraola’s rebuilding project. Competition is increasing, expectations are rising and tactical adjustments are inevitable, but players with proven Premier League quality and positional versatility rarely become expendable.

His World Cup displays have simply reinforced what Liverpool already know. Gakpo remains capable of playing a decisive role, and the months ahead could determine whether he becomes one of the leading figures in Iraola’s new era at Anfield.

Original source: BBC Sport reporting by Aadam Patel.