Cody Mathès Gakpo, born on May 7, 1999, in Eindhoven, Netherlands, has rapidly ascended the ranks of European football to become a pivotal figure for both Liverpool FC and the Netherlands national team. Standing at 1.93 meters, Gakpo’s versatility as a left winger and forward, combined with his technical prowess and goal-scoring ability, has made him one of the most exciting talents in the modern game.
Early Career and Rise at PSV Eindhoven
Gakpo’s football journey commenced in the youth systems of FC Eindhoven and later PSV Eindhoven, where he honed his skills and showcased immense potential. Making his professional debut with Jong PSV in 2016, he tallied 17 goals in 26 appearances, signaling his readiness for top-tier football.
Promoted to PSV’s senior team in 2018, Gakpo’s impact was immediate. Over five seasons, he amassed 36 goals in 106 Eredivisie appearances. The 2021–22 season was particularly stellar, with Gakpo netting 21 goals and providing 15 assists across all competitions, earning him the Dutch Footballer of the Year award. His decisive goal in the 2022 KNVB Cup final against Ajax further cemented his status as a clutch performer
Transition to Liverpool FC
In January 2023, Gakpo made a significant move to Liverpool FC, joining the Premier League giants for a reported fee exceeding £35 million. His debut season saw him adapt swiftly, contributing 7 goals in 21 Premier League appearances.
The 2023–24 season witnessed Gakpo’s continued growth, as he recorded 16 goals across all competitions, including 8 in the Premier League and 4 in the EFL Cup . His performances were instrumental in Liverpool’s domestic campaigns, showcasing his ability to influence high-stakes matches.
Elevating his game further in the 2024–25 season, Gakpo emerged as Liverpool’s second-highest scorer, netting 17 goals across competitions: 9 in the Premier League, 5 in the League Cup, and 3 in the Champions League . His synergy with teammates, notably Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold, has been pivotal in Liverpool’s attacking dynamics.
International Career with the Netherlands
Gakpo’s international debut for the Netherlands came in June 2021 during UEFA Euro 2020. Since then, he has earned 38 caps and scored 15 goals for the national team .Wikipedia
His performances in major tournaments have been noteworthy. At the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Gakpo scored in three consecutive group-stage matches against Senegal, Ecuador, and Qatar, showcasing his knack for crucial goals. In UEFA Euro 2024, he continued his impressive form, scoring three goals and providing an assist, earning the tournament’s Golden Boot in a six-way tie .Wikipedia
Career Statistics Overview
Club Performance
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Jong PSV (2016–2019): 26 appearances, 17 goals
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PSV Eindhoven (2018–2023): 106 appearances, 36 goals
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Liverpool FC (2023–Present): 87 appearances, 24 goals
International Performance
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Netherlands National Team (2021–Present): 38 caps, 15 goals
Honors and Achievements
Club Honors
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PSV Eindhoven:
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Eredivisie Champion: 2017–18
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KNVB Cup Winner: 2021–22
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Johan Cruyff Shield: 2021, 2022
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Liverpool FC:
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Premier League Champion: 2024–25
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EFL Cup Winner: 2023–24; Runner-up: 2024–25Wikipedia
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Individual Accolades
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Dutch Footballer of the Year: 2021–22
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Eredivisie Player of the Month: September 2022, October 2022
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BBC Goal of the Month: January 2025
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UEFA Euro 2024 Top Goalscorer (shared)
Cody Gakpo’s ascent in professional football is a testament to his talent, determination, and adaptability. From his early days at PSV Eindhoven to his current role at Liverpool FC, Gakpo has consistently demonstrated his ability to perform at the highest levels. His contributions to both club and country underscore his status as one of football’s emerging stars, with a trajectory that promises continued success and influence in the sport.
