Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo has revealed how his game has evolved since joining the club, insisting he’s become a “more direct” attacker under Arne Slot. The 26-year-old, who signed a new contract until 2030 last week, says his focus now is on turning domestic dominance into European glory.
Gakpo enjoyed his best campaign yet in 2024/25, scoring 18 goals and providing seven assists as Liverpool stormed to the Premier League title. But the Dutch international says being dumped out of the Champions League by Paris Saint-Germain in the last 16 “left a bad taste, in the Algemeen Dagblad”
Gakpo: “I’ve Become More Direct”
Gakpo explained that English football has sharpened his instincts in front of goal:
“I’ve noticed I’ve become more direct in my own play at Liverpool. More focused on striking immediately when you get a tiny bit of space. Playing forward, looking for the shortest route to goal. More vertical, as manager (Gus) Hiddink calls it.” — Cody Gakpo, via Algemeen Dagblad
Champions League Regret
Despite lifting the league title, Gakpo admitted Europe still stings:
“We want to wash away the bad taste of last season. Eliminated by Paris Saint-Germain in the round of 16, that was far too early. PSG was a fantastic team, of course, but it was tough to get knocked out while we were on a roll in the Premier League. We want to prove that we can also go all the way in Europe.” — Cody Gakpo
Cody Gakpo Stats Snapshot
| Stat (2024/25) | Gakpo |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 49 |
| Goals | 18 |
| Assists | 7 |
| Total Liverpool Career | 42 goals, 19 assists in 132 games |
| 2025/26 Season So Far | 4 games, 1 goal, 2 assists |
source: sofascore match data – 2 September 2025
Analyst Verdict — John William
Cody Gakpo’s evolution into a more vertical, direct player is exactly what Arne Slot’s Liverpool system requires. His willingness to attack space and strike early makes him a key weapon against deep-lying defences.
But Europe remains the barometer. Liverpool’s premature Champions League exit last season showed that while they dominate domestically, translating that into knockout-stage success is the next challenge. Gakpo’s ambition to “go all the way” signals the mindset shift needed.
Key Insights
- Gakpo signs new Liverpool contract until 2030.
- Says he’s “more direct” and “more vertical” since joining the Premier League.
- 18 goals and 7 assists in 2024/25 as Liverpool won the title.
- Admits Champions League last-16 exit to PSG left a “bad taste.”
- Started 2025/26 with 1 goal and 2 assists in 4 games.
What’s Next for Gakpo and Liverpool?
Liverpool resume action after the break with league games and a Champions League group stage opener — the start of another attempt to reclaim European dominance. Gakpo’s form will be vital if the Reds are to balance their domestic strength with continental ambitions.
Can Cody Gakpo turn his “direct” new style into the cutting edge Liverpool need to win the Champions League?
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