Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo: Can Arne Slot Unlock His True Potential?
Gakpo Shines on the International Stage
Cody Gakpo, Netherlands’ standout player at Euro 2024, has been lighting up the tournament with performances reminiscent of the Dutch greats. His style, similar to that of Arjen Robben, involves cutting in from the left wing and unleashing powerful, precise diagonal shots. This has not only put him at the top of the tournament’s scoring chart but also raised questions about his utilization at club level, especially under Liverpool’s management.
Despite having a manager of Jürgen Klopp’s calibre, Gakpo was often deployed centrally rather than in his preferred wide position. This was a point of contention, given his proven effectiveness on the flanks both for the Netherlands and during his time at PSV Eindhoven.
Slot’s New Vision for Liverpool
As Liverpool transitions under new management with Arne Slot at the helm, there’s keen interest in whether Slot will align more with Ronald Koeman’s view on Gakpo’s best position. Koeman, the Dutch national team manager, has expressed unequivocally that Gakpo’s threat is maximised when facing right full-backs one-on-one from the left wing.
This tactical alignment could potentially rejuvenate Gakpo’s role at Liverpool, especially considering Slot’s familiarity with Dutch football and his propensity for maximizing player strengths. The broader tactical shift under Slot could indeed pivot Gakpo’s club career to mirror his international success.
Gakpo’s Record-Breaking Performances
At just 25, Gakpo has made significant strides on the international scene, becoming the youngest Dutchman to score and assist in a tournament knockout match since Marco van Basten. His impressive tally includes being one of the top scorers in the last two major international tournaments, a feat surpassed only by Kylian Mbappe.
Gakpo’s ability to perform under pressure is illustrated by his critical goals and assists that have carried his team forward in Euro 2024. Such performances have cemented his status as a crucial player for the Netherlands, a sentiment echoed by Koeman who highlighted Gakpo’s pivotal role in the team’s recent successes.
Challenges at Liverpool
Despite his international acclaim, Gakpo’s journey at Liverpool has been a mix of highs and lows. Last season saw him making 53 appearances, with a respectable tally of 16 goals. However, his utilization as a starter was limited, and he often found himself substituted on or off without completing full matches.
This sporadic use has led to inconsistencies in his club performances, prompting Gakpo himself to reflect on the challenges of maintaining form amidst varying levels of trust and game time.
Future Prospects Under Slot
The big question remains: Will Slot’s approach at Liverpool provide Gakpo with the stability and role clarity he needs to excel? The potential is certainly there for Slot to leverage Gakpo’s capabilities on the left flank, much like Koeman has done at the international level.
Furthermore, Liverpool’s recent interest in other wingers like Anthony Gordon suggests ongoing adjustments and experiments in the forward line, potentially affecting Gakpo’s position. How Slot navigates these dynamics will be crucial for both Gakpo’s development and Liverpool’s offensive strategy moving forward.
In conclusion, Cody Gakpo stands at a pivotal juncture in his career. With Euro 2024 potentially propelling him to even greater heights, the alignment of his club role under Arne Slot’s guidance could be the key to unlocking an illustrious chapter for both player and club. As Liverpool fans and football analysts alike will attest, the coming season could very well define the trajectory of this talented winger’s career.
