Cody Gakpo Opens Up on Tough Summer After Failed Liverpool Exit
Cody Gakpo has admitted his summer was “very tough” after a proposed exit from Liverpool failed to materialise, leaving the Netherlands forward determined to focus on his family, teammates and his new role at Anfield.
Gakpo’s situation at a glance
| Item | Detail | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Contract | Until 2030 | Gakpo remains tied to Liverpool long term |
| Summer interest | Multimillion-pound package | A move to Manchester City was discussed |
| Current position | Right wing | Used there under Andoni Iraola |
The forward was linked with a switch from Anfield to the blue side of Manchester, with Enzo Maresca’s side also credited with serious interest. The proposed package would have brought Gakpo a major increase in wages, but no transfer was completed.
Gakpo said he had chosen not to revisit every detail of a situation which affected both him and those close to him. “It was difficult for me, my family and everything around football and life,” he said. “I let it play out, and it finished how it finished.”
He has now put the uncertainty behind him and wants to find enjoyment again at Liverpool. Gakpo said he intends to concentrate on life with family and friends, as well as playing alongside his club colleagues.
The 26-year-old also accepted that his own performances last season did not meet the demands attached to playing for Liverpool. A downturn in form brought criticism from supporters, and Gakpo said he understood why expectations had not been met.
“At a club as big as Liverpool, you must deliver,” he said. “I know I could have been much better than I was last year. Whether the criticism was fair or not, I can understand it. Liverpool have to win and show they belong among the best in the world. We did not manage that last year, and that includes me.”
Gakpo is now working under Iraola’s tactical approach and has been used on the right after Liverpool were unable to secure moves for targets including Yankuba Minteh and Ismaila Sarr. The former PSV Eindhoven player is seeking to raise his level as the Reds aim to return to the top of European football.
His message is simple: concentrate on what can be changed. “We have to do everything within our control as well as possible,” Gakpo said. “If it is beyond my control, I will not worry about it. I just do my work.”
