Van Dijk Backs Gakpo: He Will Play a Key Role This Season

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has publicly supported Cody Gakpo, saying the Dutch forward will play an important role for the team this season. In Liverpool's 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town, Gakpo provided two assists and responded to transfer rumors during the window with his performance.

Two Assists Answer Doubts

Against Ipswich Town, Gakpo contributed two assists and was directly involved in all of the team's goals, helping Liverpool secure the victory. Such a performance further convinced the club that keeping him was the right decision.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Van Dijk praised his national team teammate: “Great goals, Cody was outstanding. Keep going.” The brief comments showed his strong trust in Gakpo.

When asked about Gakpo's role in the team, Van Dijk further emphasized: “Very important. I said during the transfer window that he was important for us. He will still be important this season. I have known him for several years, and he is still improving.”

Transfer Window Drama

Van Dijk's comments came after Gakpo went through a transfer saga. Before the summer transfer window closed, Manchester City submitted an offer to Liverpool in an attempt to sign the Dutch winger.

According to reports, Gakpo had agreed personal terms at the time, and after experiencing a difficult 2025/26 season, he was seeking a new challenge. Tottenham were also interested in Gakpo, but the player himself preferred a move to Manchester City. As the deadline approached, the deal appeared almost certain to happen.

However, Liverpool made a dramatic late turnaround. Because the club failed to sign their ideal replacement in the latter stages of the window, they were concerned about a lack of attacking depth and ultimately rejected Manchester City's offer, blocking the transfer.

Afterwards, Gakpo had a candid conversation with Liverpool's management and promised to devote his full focus to the team.

Proving His Value From the Start

In the first match of the new season, Gakpo proved his value with two assists. His performance not only helped the team take all three points, but also allowed Liverpool fans to see his potential for the new campaign.

Van Dijk's public support will undoubtedly give Gakpo more confidence. As team captain, Van Dijk's comments represent the dressing room's attitude and send a clear message to the outside world: Gakpo is an important part of Liverpool's plans.

For the 27-year-old Gakpo, the new season is an opportunity to prove himself again. After struggling last season and experiencing transfer-window uncertainty, he now needs to repay the club's trust with consistently strong performances. Liverpool's decision to reject the offer and keep him will also be tested in the matches ahead.

Based on his performance in the opening match, Gakpo has already taken the right first step. Next, he needs to maintain this form and prove that Liverpool's determination to keep him was worthwhile.