Cody Gakpo has always let his football do the talking, but at this World Cup, the world is finally listening. The Dutch forward scored twice against Sweden in a 5-1 victory, adding to what has become an remarkable tournament record: five goals in seven World Cup appearances. It's a strike rate that has caught the attention of fans far beyond Merseyside — and raised an intriguing question about his future at Anfield.
Since joining Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in December 2022 for an initial £35 million, Gakpo has carved out a unique place at the club. Last season, he reached a milestone that places him among Liverpool's greats: becoming only the second Dutchman after Dirk Kuyt to score 50 goals for the club, achieving it across 180 appearances. "He is an outstanding footballer," said Netherlands and Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk after the Sweden match. "He works so hard for the team, he's disciplined and his quality stands out — his crosses, his assists, his goals."
But Gakpo's influence extends beyond statistics. Within the Netherlands squad, he plays an unexpected off-field role. "Cody is our pastor — he leads the prayers," teammate Crysencio Summerville told reporters, revealing a spiritual dimension to the 27-year-old's leadership that speaks to his character rather than his versatility on the pitch.
The so-called "Gakpo conundrum" facing Liverpool stems from a crowded attacking department. With the club pursuing young winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna for £34.5 million and hot prospect Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig in a potential £86 million package, competition for places is intensifying. Yet this may not be the burden it appears. Gakpo's ability to play centrally or from the left offers new head coach Andoni Iraola tactical flexibility that could prove invaluable — particularly given Hugo Ekitike's potential absence until 2027 with a ruptured Achilles.
There is also precedent for Gakpo thriving under pressure. The arrival of Luis Diaz, far from displacing him, seemed to elevate his game. And while there is market interest — Tottenham Hotspur among those monitoring his situation — any transfer would likely command £60 million or more, a significant profit on Liverpool's original investment and a testament to the value he has built.
For now, Gakpo's focus remains on the World Cup, where his record continues to shine. Twenty-three goals in 52 international caps since his debut five years ago suggests a player operating at the peak of his powers. The question of where he fits in Liverpool's reshaped attack is one the club will gladly wrestle with — because in Gakpo, they have a player whose quality has never been in doubt, only sometimes underappreciated. This World Cup may change that.