Liverpool step into their Champions League meeting with PSV carrying more than the usual weight of expectation. For Cody Gakpo, the build-up has brought an extra layer of emotion, intrigue and responsibility, as the Dutch forward prepares to face the club that shaped his early career. His press conference offered a revealing snapshot of the dressing room mood, the search for rhythm and the mentality shift demanded inside Anfield.

Special feelings in familiar opposition

Gakpo did not shy away from the significance of another reunion with PSV.
“The second time already! It always feels special to play against PSV. I obviously grew up there, was there a long time and have a lot of memories, so it’s special.”

The sentiment underscores why this fixture resonates beyond the usual Champions League narrative. Liverpool rely on Gakpo’s versatility and sharpness in tight matches and he knows better than most how PSV approach these occasions. Once the whistle goes, though, affection turns to ambition.

“I wouldn’t say strange, it’s special, to be honest… when the whistle goes then that just disappears and you want to win the match.”

Finding consistency after early season highs

The Dutchman highlighted the contrast between Liverpool’s standout wins earlier in the month and their more recent setbacks.
“I think we try to get back to that. We know we are in a difficult position, but I think we have to stick together… It’s not been the best of streaks, but we have to fight through that.”

Performances against Aston Villa and Real Madrid hinted at a Liverpool capable of elite control and intensity. The challenge now is sustaining that level during a testing period. His comments on internal accountability made clear that the players see improvement as a collective duty.

“The most important thing is we stick together no matter what happens… we are just being honest with each other that some things really have to improve.”

Responsibility in difficult moments

There was also recognition of how external noise around Liverpool’s form filters into the squad, particularly in an age dominated by social media. Yet Gakpo emphasised the strength that comes from the group itself.

“If we are together inside of the dressing room, I think this is the most important thing. We can get confidence out of each other.”

He also addressed his manager’s remarks about responsibility.
“The boss takes responsibility for that, but we as players also have a big responsibility… I definitely take responsibility for it.”

That blend of self-reflection and determination is precisely what Liverpool need to regain control of their season.

Building chemistry with new faces

Gakpo acknowledged the natural adjustment period that comes with integrating new signings.

“Obviously new players came in… it’s a process… we are working on that also in training.”

Winning tends to mask growing pains, but defeats place every relationship under the microscope. The squad have been frank with each other after the 3-0 loss to Nottingham Forest, a setback that sharpened both frustration and resolve.

“It was kind of an embarrassment… we try to speak together and really to be honest with each other about what we have to do better.”

As Liverpool prepare for PSV, Gakpo’s words reflect a player rooted in his past yet driven by his present challenge. Anfield expects a response and the Dutch forward is prepared to shoulder his share of the responsibility.