Restored to his favored role on the left side of the attack for his national team, Cody Gakpo has arguably been the standout player of the tournament so far. English fans, accustomed to seeing Gakpo’s struggles with Liverpool in the Premier League, are now confronted with an entirely different image of him as the Netherlands’ biggest threat in the upcoming Euro semi-final on Wednesday. Despite an indifferent season at club level, Gakpo has found his rhythm on the international stage, shining brightly in a major tournament setting.
In a candid interview, Gakpo spoke about the contrast between his club and national team performances, stating, “I play on the left wing. In Liverpool, I played a lot as a striker, so I think that’s the most different thing.” He elaborated, “I was a left winger before, so that’s always been my preference. I think in the last one-and-a-half years the coach needed me to play somewhere else and that’s what I try to do the best I can.” Clearly, the positional adjustment has paid dividends for the Dutchman when playing for his country.
At Liverpool, Gakpo’s season has been a mixed bag. He has struggled to find the back of the net consistently, leading to questions about his fit in Jurgen Klopp’s system. Nevertheless, Gakpo’s recent performances for the Netherlands underscore his undeniable talent and versatility. He has been an instrumental figure in the squad’s journey to the Euro semi-finals, his performances characterized by pace, creativity, and clinical finishing.
The shift back to his favorite left-wing position has rejuvenated Gakpo, allowing him to play with the freedom and confidence that characterized his early career. This transformation begs the question of whether Liverpool should reconsider his role within the team. As the national team coach places faith in Gakpo’s preferred position, the results have been extraordinary, hinting that Liverpool might benefit from a similar approach.
Meanwhile, his contributions to the Dutch team’s success cannot be overstated. His skillful dribbling, vision, and quick passing have catalyzed numerous attacks, making him a nightmare for opposition defenses. This renewed form was evident in the thrilling quarter-final against Turkiye, where Gakpo’s creativity and decisiveness were key factors in the Netherlands’ advancement to the semi-finals against England.
The anticipation surrounding the semi-final clash is palpable.
. English fans, who may have been underwhelmed by Gakpo’s Premier League performances, are now on high alert. The upcoming match is being billed as a face-off against one of Europe’s most in-form players, and Gakpo is certainly the man of the moment.
The Netherlands’ success in this tournament has hinged significantly on Gakpo’s performances. With key players delivering at crucial moments, the team has showcased a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. The resurgence of Gakpo, in particular, has been one of the highlights, demonstrating how a change in environment and tactical adjustments can bring the best out of a player.
“Cody has always had the potential,” said a source close to the Dutch football team. “His dip in form at Liverpool was temporary. The position he plays at his club isn’t his natural one, and that affects performance. Watching him play for the Netherlands, it’s clear that he’s in the zone, feeling confident and sharp. He’s proof that positioning and player comfort matters a lot.”
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As the countdown to the semi-finals winds down, all eyes will be on Cody Gakpo. The match against England is not just a test for the Dutch team but also a personal battleground for Gakpo to cement his status as one of Europe’s elite forwards. His journey from an underwhelming season at Liverpool to potentially leading his country to glory encapsulates the unpredictable and thrilling nature of football, where talent and opportunity can come together dramatically to alter a player’s narrative.
Regardless of the outcome, Gakpo’s story is a compelling reminder of football’s inherent unpredictability and a nod to the importance of players finding their true roles to shine the brightest. His performances have reignited debates on player positioning and the role of tactical flexibility, not just for clubs but for national teams as well. As he prepares to face off against England, one thing is certain: Cody Gakpo has firmly reclaimed his place in the spotlight, ready to dazzle on the grandest stage of European football.
