“It has to be better” – Liverpool star sends message to teammates ahead of Chelsea clash | OneFootball

Cody Gakpo Aims for Champions League Spot and Reflects on 50th Goal for Liverpool

As the 2025-26 Premier League season nears its conclusion, Cody Gakpo remains laser-focused on helping Liverpool secure a spot in next season’s Champions League. With only three games left to play, the Reds sit comfortably in fourth position, needing just four more points to seal their European qualification. But while the situation looks promising, Gakpo admits there is still room for improvement across the team.

Champions League Qualification Priority

Liverpool’s target for the remainder of the season is clear: secure a place in the Champions League for the 2026-27 campaign. Following a tough 3-2 defeat to Manchester United, Liverpool’s focus is now firmly on winning their remaining matches. Gakpo spoke to Liverpoolfc.com about the importance of closing out the season on a high note.

“The most important thing now is to get the Champions League qualification over the line, to win our own games,” Gakpo said. “Depending on other teams’ results, we could secure it this weekend. But we need to get it done sooner rather than later.”

Gakpo acknowledged the team’s positive run of form, including three wins from their last four matches, but stressed that Liverpool’s past standards should always be the benchmark.

“Looking at the season as a whole, this period has been quite positive. But we all know the standards that have been set at this club – it has to be better in general,” he added.

Photo: IMAGO

Chelsea’s Struggles and Liverpool’s Caution

While Gakpo is keen to maintain Liverpool’s momentum, he is also mindful of the threat posed by Chelsea, who are enduring a tough run of results. Despite their recent six-match losing streak, including a 3-1 defeat to Nottingham Forest, Gakpo warns that complacency could be dangerous.

“Chelsea are in a tough place right now, but eventually, their situation will turn around. Hopefully, it won’t be against us,” Gakpo cautioned. “They have a strong team with great players, so we must never underestimate them, no matter their current form. It’s always a tough game when they come to Anfield. We have to be ready.”

With Chelsea visiting Anfield this Saturday, Liverpool will need to show focus and determination, especially as they look to bounce back from the disappointment at Old Trafford.

Gakpo Reaches Milestone with 50 Goals for Liverpool

In a season of ups and downs, Gakpo reached an important personal milestone, scoring his 50th goal for Liverpool. His strike in the match against Manchester United secured the achievement, making him only the 58th player in Liverpool’s storied history to reach the landmark. Notably, Gakpo is also the second Dutch player to do so, following in the footsteps of Liverpool legend Dirk Kuyt.

“To reach 50 goals is a milestone and something to be proud of,” Gakpo reflected. “But as a player, the focus is always on the season, how things went – both personally and as a team. Right now, the main focus is on Champions League qualification. Once the season is over, I’ll reflect on my achievements.”

Looking Ahead

With just a few matches left to play, Liverpool’s immediate priority is clear: secure that Champions League spot. For Gakpo, achieving this goal will top off what has already been a successful personal campaign, but the Dutch forward knows there’s more work to be done before the end of the season.