Cody Gakpo, born on May 7, 1999, in Eindhoven, Netherlands, is a talented Dutch footballer who plays as a forward for Liverpool in the Premier League and represents the Netherlands national team.
He started his football journey with EVV Eindhoven AV before moving to PSV Eindhoven’s youth academy in 2007. Gakpo made his senior debut in February 2018 as a late substitute during a 3-1 victory against Feyenoord.
On December 28, 2022, Gakpo signed with Liverpool, debuting on January 7, 2023, as a starter in an FA Cup third-round 2-2 draw against Wolves. He has also played for the Netherlands at various youth levels, including U18 through U21.
Gakpo earned his senior international debut in June 2021 during UEFA Euro 2020.
Known for his adaptability and creativity on the field, Gakpo has demonstrated exceptional skill in multiple positions, particularly excelling as a left-winger and central forward. His technical abilities, combined with his eye for goal, have made him a standout player in both domestic and international competitions.
Gakpo’s rise to prominence includes significant milestones, such as scoring 21 goals during the 2021-2022 season for PSV, which earned him the Dutch Footballer of the Year award. This achievement highlighted his importance as a player capable of making a substantial impact.
At Liverpool, Gakpo has continued to grow, contributing key goals and assists, cementing his place as a vital part of the squad. His professionalism and work ethic have earned him respect both on and off the pitch, making him a role model for aspiring footballers.
The Beginnings of Cody Gakpo
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Growing up in Stratum, Gakpo displayed a passion for football from a young age. His parents, Johnny Gakpo, of Togolese and Ghanaian heritage, and Ank Gakpo, of Dutch origin, greatly supported his development.
At just four years old, he joined EVV Eindhoven, and by 2007, he was part of PSV Eindhoven’s esteemed youth academy, where he refined his talent and progressed through the ranks. Known for his work ethic and dedication, Gakpo consistently impressed coaches with his ability to adapt and improve in every aspect of his game.
His family’s encouragement and early exposure to professional training played a crucial role in setting the foundation for his football career. Beyond their moral support, his parents emphasized the importance of balancing education and sports, ensuring that Cody developed both as an athlete and as an individual.
During his time in the PSV youth setup, Gakpo frequently stood out in competitions, showcasing his technical skills and a sharp footballing IQ. These formative years at one of the Netherlands’ top academies not only honed his physical abilities but also instilled in him a tactical understanding of the game that would later define his professional career.
The Supportive Family of Cody Gakpo
Cody Gakpo hails from a family with a rich sports legacy. His father, Johnny, previously played football for Togo’s national team and later joined PSV Eindhoven’s reserve squad before dedicating himself to humanitarian work in Togo.
His mother, Ank, is a former professional rugby player for the Netherlands and now works as a secondary school teacher. Cody grew up alongside his brothers, Sidney and Ducferre, with his family fostering a love for sports and instilling values like dedication and humility.
The Personal Life of Cody Gakpo
In FIFA 24, Cody Gakpo’s overall rating stands at approximately 83, with standout attributes in dribbling and shooting, both rated at 83. These ratings are expected to improve in the future.
Cody Gakpo’s Club Career
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Gakpo’s football career reflects consistent growth and impressive performances. Starting with EVV Eindhoven AV, he transitioned to PSV Eindhoven’s youth academy in 2007, where he quickly showcased his potential.
He made his first-team debut for PSV Eindhoven on February 25, 2018, contributing to a 3-1 win over Feyenoord, marking the beginning of a promising professional career.
He entered the match during injury time as a substitute. The 2019–2020 season marked his emergence as a key player, solidifying his role as a regular starter for PSV and attracting interest from major clubs.
In the 2021-2022 season, Gakpo delivered a standout performance by scoring 21 goals across 47 matches. This remarkable achievement earned him the title of Dutch Footballer of the Year and highlighted his value to the team. On December 28, 2022, he transitioned to Liverpool, signaling the beginning of an exciting new phase in his career.
Gakpo officially joined the Premier League squad and made his debut on January 7, 2023, starting in an FA Cup third-round game against Wolverhampton Wanderers that ended in a 2-2 draw. His first goal for Liverpool came on February 13, 2023, during a 2-0 victory against Everton in the Merseyside derby, quickly endearing him to the fans.
Cody Gakpo’s Success on the International Stage
Gakpo has represented the Netherlands across various youth levels, including U18, U19, U20, and U21, with a total of 21 appearances and 11 goals at these stages. He made his senior debut on June 21, 2021, in a UEFA Euro 2020 match against North Macedonia, coming on as a substitute in the 80th minute.
He scored his first senior international goal on September 4, 2021, during a 4-0 victory over Montenegro in the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. By December 2024, Gakpo had earned 36 caps and scored 14 goals for the Netherlands. His contributions have been vital in key tournaments such as the UEFA Nations League, where he has helped the team secure important victories and maintain a strong presence.
Gakpo’s international career showcases his consistent performances and scoring prowess, establishing him as a key figure for the Netherlands national team.
Cody Gakpo’s Dynamic Approach to the Game
Career Highlights
Gakpo recorded his first professional hat-trick on December 3, 2018, in a commanding 5-1 win against the Go Ahead Eagles, showcasing his early potential. His stellar 2021-2022 season, with 21 goals in 47 appearances, earned him the Dutch Footballer of the Year award, affirming his status as one of the Eredivisie’s top talents.
On February 13, 2023, Gakpo found the net for the first time in a Liverpool jersey during a 2-0 Merseyside derby victory over Everton, quickly earning the admiration of the fans. He later contributed to Liverpool’s historic 7-0 win over Manchester United in the 2022-2023 season, playing a vital role in one of the club’s most unforgettable performances.
In December 2024, Gakpo showcased his brilliance by scoring in crucial victories against Real Madrid and Manchester City, helping Liverpool strengthen their position at the top of the Champions League and Premier League standings. His performances were instrumental in maintaining the team’s momentum.
Gakpo made his senior debut for the Netherlands on June 21, 2021, during the UEFA Euro 2020 match against North Macedonia. He later opened his international scoring account on September 4, 2021, with a goal in a 4-0 win over Montenegro during the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
