Gakpo’s Future at Liverpool Faces New Challenges Following Sunderland Match
Liverpool’s season has already been marked by significant ups and downs, testing the patience of even the most devoted fans, with Cody Gakpo becoming a focal point for much of the discontent. After Liverpool’s Premier League title win in 2024-25, the Dutch forward was anticipated to progress under coach Arne Slot, especially with a more stable role in the starting lineup this season. However, his performance against Sunderland at Anfield served as another reminder of his halted growth.
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Slot’s Evaluation of Gakpo’s Performance
Despite growing frustration among fans, Slot has stood by Gakpo. While his statistics for goals and assists remain steady, his overall performances have often not matched these figures. The match against Sunderland highlighted this disconnect too starkly to ignore.
Gakpo started the game on the left but was substituted at halftime as Slot made a decisive change. The manager clarified his reasoning, stating: “In my opinion, Cody struggled to dominate the one-on-ones.” He added, “I felt in the first half that Cody found it tough to make an impact, struggling to assert himself in one-on-ones or to get crosses into the box.”
Photo: IMAGO
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The subsequent tactical adjustments, including the introduction of Mohamed Salah and positioning Florian Wirtz in a more creative role, provided Liverpool with an immediate boost. Although the match ended in a disappointing 1-1 draw for the fans, the shift spoke volumes about Gakpo’s current status in Slot’s plans.
Statistics Highlight a Larger Issue
Analyzing the statistics from the Sunderland match presents a troubling reality. Gakpo registered no chances created, only 0.04 expected goals, a single off-target shot, and just one unsuccessful dribble attempt. With only 26 touches and winning merely one of four ground duels, he failed to provide the necessary penetration and unpredictability that Liverpool needs from the left flank.
Slot also mentioned structural factors, explaining, “In the first half, we deployed Szoboszlai on the right to ensure we were defensively solid. I shifted to Mo on the right and played Florian Wirtz on the left.” This change immediately restored balance and variety to Liverpool’s offensive play.
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Ekitike Emerging as a Viable Option
With Luis Diaz’s departure in the summer and no replacement acquired, the left side has become one of the team’s biggest enigmas this season. Gakpo’s repetitiveness, consistently cutting in onto his right foot, has made it easier for defenses to counter him. The potential answer may lie with Hugo Ekitike, whose speed, movement, and ability to exploit space align more closely with Slot’s vision for the team. If Slot can consistently incorporate Ekitike alongside Alexander Isak, Liverpool could achieve the fluidity that Gakpo has yet to deliver. Fans have sensed this change brewing, and Slot seems poised to acknowledge it soon.
While Gakpo still holds value as a squad player, the growing evidence suggests that his place in the starting lineup can no longer be justified. The Sunderland match could very well be the turning point. Slot’s remarks and tactical changes indicate a shift in Liverpool’s attacking approach and a manager ready to take decisive action.