Cody Gakpo has quickly established himself as one of Liverpool’s most important attacking players, combining technical quality with intelligence and versatility at the highest level. Since arriving at Anfield, the Dutch forward has adapted to Premier League demands while continuing to develop his all round game. Known for his calm finishing, movement between the lines, and ability to operate across the front three, Gakpo offers tactical flexibility that modern football demands. His journey from PSV Eindhoven to one of Europe’s biggest clubs reflects both patience and ambition. Internationally, he has also become a regular presence for the Netherlands, delivering goals and composure on major stages. Fans and analysts alike remain intrigued by his evolution under elite coaching. This article explores Cody Gakpo’s background, career progression, playing style, and growing influence, explaining why Cody Gakpo continues to attract attention as a forward built for long term success.
Cody Gakpo’s Early Life and Football Beginnings
Cody Gakpo was born in Eindhoven, Netherlands, a city deeply connected to football culture through PSV Eindhoven. Growing up in this environment played a major role in shaping his passion for the game. From a young age, Gakpo showed natural athleticism and a strong understanding of football, traits that quickly set him apart from his peers. His family background, with roots in both Dutch and Ghanaian heritage, also influenced his disciplined mindset and work ethic.
He joined PSV’s youth academy at just six years old, beginning a long developmental journey within one of Europe’s most respected talent systems. PSV are known for nurturing technically gifted attackers, and Gakpo thrived in this structured yet creative environment. Coaches identified his intelligence on the ball early, often praising his ability to read the game rather than relying purely on physical strength.
As he progressed through the youth ranks, Gakpo’s versatility became clear. While naturally left footed and often deployed on the wing, he was comfortable playing centrally or drifting into advanced attacking areas. This adaptability made him a valuable asset at youth level and prepared him for the tactical demands of senior football. His calm temperament also stood out, particularly in high pressure situations.
Breaking into PSV’s senior setup was not instant. Gakpo spent time learning from established professionals, gradually earning minutes rather than being rushed into the spotlight. This steady progression allowed him to build confidence without overwhelming expectations. Each season saw clear improvement in his decision making, movement, and end product.
By the time he became a regular first team player, Cody Gakpo was already viewed as one of the Netherlands’ most promising attacking talents. His foundation at PSV, built on patience, technical development, and tactical understanding, laid the groundwork for the successful career that would soon take him beyond Dutch football.
Cody Gakpo’s Breakthrough at PSV Eindhoven
Cody Gakpo’s rise at PSV Eindhoven was marked by steady growth, determination, and increasing influence on the pitch. After progressing through the youth ranks, he made his senior debut in 2016, gradually earning trust from coaches and teammates. Early appearances highlighted his composure, ball control, and intelligent movement, which distinguished him from other young forwards.
The 2018–2019 season marked a turning point, as Gakpo began contributing regularly with goals and assists. His ability to cut inside from the left wing, combine with midfielders, and finish clinically made him a key attacking outlet. PSV recognised not only his technical talent but also his work ethic and professionalism, traits that would later attract interest from top European clubs.
Gakpo’s performances in domestic league matches showcased his consistency. While other young talents often struggle to adapt to the rigours of senior football, he demonstrated tactical awareness, defensive responsibility, and versatility. Coaches often praised his intelligence off the ball, particularly his ability to find pockets of space and exploit defensive weaknesses.
European competitions further accelerated his growth. Playing in the UEFA Europa League and other continental fixtures exposed Gakpo to high-level opposition, testing his decision making under pressure. He responded with maturity, contributing important goals and demonstrating he could perform on the bigger stage.
By the time he left PSV, Cody Gakpo had cemented his reputation as one of the Netherlands’ brightest attacking talents. His combination of technical skill, versatility, and mental composure made him a prime candidate for a move to a top European league, setting the stage for his transfer to Liverpool and his next chapter in elite football.
Transfer to Liverpool: Cody Gakpo’s Big Move
Cody Gakpo’s transfer to Liverpool marked a significant milestone in his career, representing a step into one of the world’s most competitive leagues. Announced in the summer of 2025, the move was widely anticipated, with fans and analysts eager to see how his technical ability would translate to the Premier League. Liverpool identified Gakpo as a versatile attacker capable of adding depth and dynamism to their front three, as well as providing a long-term solution on the left wing.
The transfer process highlighted his growing reputation. Gakpo’s performances at PSV, combined with his international displays for the Netherlands, drew attention from elite clubs across Europe. Liverpool’s structured playing style, high pressing system, and focus on versatile forwards made the Reds an ideal fit for his skill set. Both parties emphasised ambition, professionalism, and the opportunity for continued growth.
Upon arrival at Anfield, Gakpo was immediately integrated into Liverpool’s first team. Pre-season sessions focused on tactical adaptation, understanding Jurgen Klopp’s pressing philosophy, and developing chemistry with established stars. His ability to adjust quickly impressed coaching staff, with observers noting his intelligence, work rate, and willingness to learn from teammates.
Early Premier League appearances confirmed his impact. Gakpo contributed with assists, key passes, and occasional goals, displaying the technical quality and composure that made him a standout talent in the Netherlands. His versatility allowed Klopp to deploy him in various attacking positions, including inverted left wing, central forward, or even as part of a two-striker system when needed.
Overall, Cody Gakpo’s move to Liverpool represented more than a transfer; it was a test of ability, character, and adaptation. His smooth transition has already reinforced his reputation as a top-level attacker, with fans excited about his potential to become a central figure in Liverpool’s attacking plans.
Playing Style and Key Strengths of Cody Gakpo
Cody Gakpo is widely recognised for his versatility, technical skill, and tactical intelligence, making him a valuable asset for both club and country. Naturally left-footed, he primarily operates on the left wing but is capable of drifting inside or playing centrally when the situation demands. His ability to combine pace with precision allows him to create scoring opportunities, whether through direct runs, cutbacks, or clever link-up play.
One of Gakpo’s standout qualities is his finishing. He remains composed in high-pressure situations, often opting for calculated shots rather than rash attempts. This composure has translated well to Liverpool’s Premier League fixtures, where defenders are faster, stronger, and more aggressive than in the Eredivisie. His goal-scoring record reflects not just talent but intelligence in timing runs and positioning.
Dribbling and ball control also define his style. Gakpo is adept at beating defenders in one-on-one situations, frequently creating space for crosses or combinations in the final third. His ability to maintain balance under pressure makes him particularly effective against tight marking, a skill that has drawn praise from coaches and analysts alike.
Beyond attacking flair, Gakpo contributes defensively. He tracks back to support full-backs and engages in pressing opponents high up the pitch, fitting seamlessly into systems that require work rate and discipline. This balance of offensive creativity and defensive responsibility enhances his overall influence on the team.
Finally, his tactical intelligence allows him to adapt to different formations and roles. Whether cutting inside to create shooting angles, drifting wide to stretch defences, or linking with midfielders for quick combinations, Gakpo demonstrates an understanding of spatial awareness and team dynamics that goes beyond raw skill.
Cody Gakpo’s Role in Liverpool’s Tactical System
Cody Gakpo’s importance at Liverpool goes beyond goals and assists, as his tactical flexibility makes him a key component in the team’s attacking structure. Under a high-intensity system, he is often asked to interpret space rather than remain fixed in one position. This intelligence allows Liverpool to rotate fluidly in attack, creating unpredictability for opposition defences.
When deployed on the left side, Gakpo frequently drifts into central areas, operating between midfield and defence. This movement opens space for overlapping full-backs and creates overloads in dangerous zones. His comfort receiving the ball on the half-turn enables Liverpool to progress play quickly, especially against deep defensive blocks where creativity is essential.
Gakpo has also been used effectively as a central forward. In this role, he links midfield and attack, dropping deeper to draw defenders out of position. This creates room for runners from wide areas and midfield, adding another layer to Liverpool’s attacking patterns. His awareness and passing ability make him more than a traditional striker, contributing to overall build-up play.
Pressing is another crucial aspect of his role. Gakpo understands pressing triggers and angles his runs intelligently to cut off passing lanes. This supports Liverpool’s defensive structure from the front, helping the team regain possession higher up the pitch. His work rate ensures he fits seamlessly into a system that demands constant movement and effort.
Overall, Cody Gakpo’s tactical role reflects modern football’s emphasis on adaptability. His ability to interpret instructions, switch positions, and maintain balance between creativity and discipline makes him an invaluable option for Liverpool. As the team continues to evolve, his versatility ensures he remains central to their tactical plans.
International Career and Impact with the Netherlands
Cody Gakpo’s international career has played a crucial role in shaping his reputation on the global stage. Representing the Netherlands has allowed him to test his abilities against elite international opponents, further developing his confidence and composure. From his early call-ups to becoming a regular squad member, his progression with the national team has mirrored his steady rise at club level.
Gakpo made an immediate impression with his direct style of play and eye for goal. Often deployed on the left wing, he became known for his ability to cut inside and create scoring opportunities. His performances in major tournaments brought him wider recognition, as he delivered goals and assists under the intense pressure of international football.
One of the defining aspects of his international impact is his consistency. While some players struggle to replicate club form on the international stage, Gakpo has shown the ability to adapt to different tactical setups and teammates. His calm decision making and positional awareness have made him a trusted option for national team managers.
Beyond individual contributions, Gakpo’s presence adds balance to the Dutch attack. His willingness to track back, press opponents, and support team structure highlights his understanding of collective responsibility. This balance between flair and discipline has earned him respect within the squad and among supporters.
As his career continues, Cody Gakpo’s role with the Netherlands is expected to grow further. With experience at both club and international level, he represents a new generation of Dutch attackers capable of combining technical excellence with tactical maturity, making him a central figure for his country’s future ambitions.
Challenges, Adaptation, and Growth in the Premier League
Moving to the Premier League presented Cody Gakpo with a new set of challenges that tested both his physical and mental attributes. The pace of the league, combined with the intensity of pressing and physical duels, required rapid adaptation. Early on, he faced tightly organised defences and aggressive marking, forcing him to adjust his decision making and movement off the ball.
Gakpo responded by refining his game rather than changing it entirely. He focused on quicker ball circulation, sharper positioning, and improved timing in his runs. Training sessions emphasised strength, stamina, and tactical awareness, helping him cope with the demands of English football. This willingness to learn has been a key factor in his steady improvement.
Injuries and rotation also formed part of his adjustment period. Like many players adapting to a new league, Gakpo experienced periods where he was rotated or used in different roles. Instead of allowing this to disrupt his confidence, he used it as an opportunity to develop versatility, becoming comfortable in multiple attacking positions.
Mental resilience has been central to his growth. Playing for a club with high expectations brings scrutiny, but Gakpo has shown maturity in handling criticism and pressure. He remains composed, focused on incremental improvement rather than immediate acclaim, which has earned praise from coaches and teammates.
Overall, Cody Gakpo’s Premier League journey highlights his adaptability and mindset. By embracing challenges rather than resisting them, he has continued to evolve as a player. This growth suggests that his best performances may still lie ahead as he becomes increasingly settled in English football.
Cody Gakpo’s Influence in the Dressing Room and Leadership Qualities
Cody Gakpo’s impact at Liverpool is not limited to what he produces on the pitch. Behind the scenes, he has steadily earned respect within the dressing room through professionalism, humility, and consistency. Despite joining a squad filled with experienced internationals, Gakpo has shown maturity beyond his years, integrating smoothly into the group dynamic.
One of his most noticeable traits is his calm presence. Gakpo is not the loudest voice in the room, but teammates often point to his composed attitude as a stabilising influence. He approaches training with focus and discipline, setting an example through actions rather than words. This approach aligns well with Liverpool’s culture of collective responsibility and high standards.
His leadership qualities were already evident during his time at PSV, where he carried responsibility at a young age. That experience has translated well at Liverpool, especially in moments when the team requires composure. Whether starting matches or coming off the bench, Gakpo maintains the same intensity and commitment, reinforcing trust among coaching staff and players.
Communication is another strength. On the pitch, he constantly gestures, points, and adjusts his positioning to support teammates. This awareness helps maintain structure during fast transitions and pressing phases. Off the pitch, he is known to be thoughtful and respectful, building strong relationships within the squad.
As he continues to grow in confidence, Cody Gakpo’s leadership influence is expected to expand. While he may not wear the armband regularly, his mentality and professionalism suggest he will remain an important figure within Liverpool’s evolving core, contributing both through performance and presence.
Future Potential and Long Term Expectations
Cody Gakpo’s career trajectory suggests that his most impactful years are still ahead. At an age where many forwards are refining rather than peaking, he continues to add layers to his game. Coaches and analysts alike view him as a long term asset capable of adapting to tactical evolution and increasing responsibility within the team.
One area of expected growth is consistency in end product. While Gakpo already contributes goals and assists, regular high level output across an entire season will elevate him into the elite category of attackers. With experience in the Premier League and continued tactical refinement, this consistency is a realistic target rather than a distant ambition.
Another factor shaping expectations is versatility. Modern football increasingly values players who can operate in multiple roles without disrupting team balance. Gakpo’s comfort across the front line positions him well for future tactical shifts, whether under the same system or new managerial ideas. This adaptability enhances his longevity at the top level.
Internationally, his role with the Netherlands is also expected to expand. As senior players transition out, Gakpo is well placed to become a focal point of the national team’s attacking identity. Tournament experience has already shown his ability to deliver under pressure, an attribute crucial for leadership on the international stage.
Ultimately, the long term expectations surrounding Cody Gakpo are built on more than potential alone. His work ethic, mindset, and willingness to evolve suggest sustained growth. If he continues on this path, he is likely to remain a defining figure for both club and country for years to come.
Why Cody Gakpo Remains Central to Liverpool’s Future Plans
Cody Gakpo’s growing importance at Liverpool reflects careful planning rather than short term impact alone. From the moment he arrived, the club viewed him as a player capable of evolving with the squad over several seasons. His age, versatility, and mentality fit perfectly with a long term vision focused on sustainable success rather than quick fixes.
One reason he remains central to Liverpool’s plans is tactical reliability. Managers value players they can trust in multiple scenarios, and Gakpo offers exactly that. Whether Liverpool need control in possession, direct attacking threat, or disciplined pressing from the front, he can fulfil the role without disrupting team balance. This reliability makes him invaluable across a demanding season.
His personality also aligns with Liverpool’s culture. Gakpo displays humility, focus, and professionalism, traits that help maintain standards in a high pressure environment. He avoids distractions, prioritises improvement, and responds positively to coaching. These qualities are often as important as technical skill when building a squad capable of competing consistently at the top level.
From a strategic perspective, Gakpo also represents stability during transition. As squads evolve and senior figures change, players like him provide continuity. His experience across different leagues and competitions allows him to bridge generations within the team, supporting younger players while learning from established leaders.
Ultimately, Cody Gakpo’s role goes beyond statistics. He represents a modern forward built for adaptability, intelligence, and long term contribution. As Liverpool continue shaping their future, Gakpo stands out as a player around whom trust, tactics, and ambition can confidently be built.
FAQs: Cody Gakpo
Who is Cody Gakpo?
Cody Gakpo is a Dutch professional footballer who plays as an attacker for Liverpool and the Netherlands national team. He is recognised for his versatility, technical quality, and intelligent movement across the front line.
What position does Cody Gakpo play?
Cody Gakpo primarily operates as a left winger but can also play as a central forward or in advanced attacking roles, offering tactical flexibility.
When did Cody Gakpo join Liverpool?
Cody Gakpo joined Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023, marking his move into the Premier League after establishing himself in Dutch football.
What clubs did Cody Gakpo play for before Liverpool?
Before joining Liverpool, Cody Gakpo spent his entire professional development at PSV Eindhoven, progressing from the youth academy to the first team.
What is Cody Gakpo’s playing style?
His playing style combines composure, strong ball control, intelligent positioning, and the ability to score and create goals, particularly when cutting inside from the left.
Has Cody Gakpo represented the Netherlands internationally?
Yes, Cody Gakpo is a regular member of the Netherlands national team and has featured in major international tournaments, contributing with important goals.
What makes Cody Gakpo valuable to Liverpool?
Gakpo’s versatility, work rate, and tactical awareness make him a key part of Liverpool’s squad, allowing him to adapt to multiple roles within the team.
What is Cody Gakpo’s future potential?
Cody Gakpo is widely viewed as a long term asset with significant potential to grow further, both at Liverpool and on the international stage, as he gains experience and consistency.
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