Cody Gakpo has consistently expressed that his preferred position is on the left wing, a spot where he has often thrived. However, under Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool, he wasn’t frequently utilized in this role, a situation that seems poised to change with the arrival of Arne Slot as head coach.
Gakpo is a versatile player in Liverpool’s squad, but even Klopp recognized that last season’s experiment to push him into a midfield role didn’t quite pan out. This shift not only hindered Gakpo’s performance but also impacted his confidence. Nevertheless, he showed a resurgence late in the season when he was finally played in his natural position on the left wing, the same area where he had excelled at PSV and shone for the Netherlands during a Euros campaign that saw him finish as joint-top scorer with three goals.
Playing on the left wing aligns well with Gakpo’s strengths, allowing him to serve as a playmaker. Slot has made it clear to the 25-year-old that this is where he envisions him playing in the upcoming season.
Discussing his conversations with the new head coach, Gakpo shared on the club’s website: “We’ve talked, and it’s obvious that he sees me as a left winger. That’s where he wants to utilize me.”
He added, “We have a lot of options in the front line, and with the length of the season, injuries can happen in any position. Slot mentioned that while my primary role will be on the left, there might be occasions where he needs me elsewhere. He just wants me to be ready for any situation.”
Gakpo is focused on contributing as much as he can to the team, showcasing his abilities wherever needed. The competition for the left-wing position is strong, with Luis Diaz being the most notable contender. Diogo Jota can also cover this area, though he is expected to play more centrally.
Liverpool’s need for flexibility across the front line means that having adaptable players is crucial for Slot’s tactical plans. However, it’s promising for Gakpo that he’ll be primarily used in the position that suits him best.
Since his arrival at Anfield, Gakpo has often been regarded as the fifth-choice forward. While his late return from the Euros means he’s playing catch-up, it will be fascinating to see how he progresses under Slot’s guidance. During his time under Klopp, Gakpo was deployed on the left wing just 14 times, where he managed to score three goals and provide three assists.
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