Cody Gakpo Struggles to Shine in Liverpool’s Tumultuous Season
Recent performances from Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo have raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. The Dutch winger has been unable to replicate the form that made him a crucial player last season, leading to frustration during matches, particularly in the recent clash against PSV Eindhoven.
Challenges on the Left Wing
Despite starting 14 of Liverpool’s 17 matches this season across both the Premier League and Champions League, Gakpo’s contributions have been lackluster. He has managed to score just four goals and provide three assists, a far cry from his previous season where he emerged as the club’s second-highest scorer with 18 goals. The absence of Luis Diaz, who often challenged Gakpo for his starting position, has seemingly left the winger without the competitive edge he thrived on.
In the match against PSV, Gakpo’s inability to form a connection with left-back Milos Kerkez was glaringly evident. The pair struggled to link up effectively, and there were moments where Gakpo chose to pass instead of shooting, leading to cries of frustration from the fans. This decision-making has led many to question whether Liverpool might need to seek stronger options for the left wing.
Statistics Tell a Troubling Story
While Gakpo created four chances against PSV, the overall impact of his performance was underwhelming. His lack of dynamism has increasingly come under scrutiny. The 26-year-old tends to cut inside onto his stronger right foot, but this predictability has made him easier for defenders to manage. This season, his crossing accuracy is notably poor, ranking in the bottom 29 percent among his peers in the Premier League. Gakpo averages just 0.59 successful crosses per 90 minutes and holds a meager 12.8 percent crossing accuracy rate.
Shooting statistics further highlight his struggles. Although he ranks in the top 11 percent for shots taken, his conversion rate is dismal, with only 0.49 shots on target per 90 minutes, placing him in the bottom 38 percent. This lack of effectiveness has raised questions about his role as a key player in an elite team.
The Broader Context of Liverpool’s Struggles
Liverpool’s current situation is dire, with the team losing nine of their last 12 matches—marking their worst run since the 1950s. The recent loss to PSV marked the first time since December 1953 that they have lost three consecutive games by three or more goals. Such results have amplified the pressure on players like Gakpo, whose performance is being scrutinized amidst a backdrop of team turmoil.
Gakpo’s recent performances have left fans wondering if Liverpool should consider alternative options for the left wing. The inconsistency in the left-back position, with rotations between Kerkez and Andy Robertson, has not helped either. As the team looks to regain form, the question remains whether Gakpo can adapt and rise to the occasion or if the club needs to explore new talent to bolster their attacking options.
In a season marked by uncertainty, Gakpo’s ability to contribute effectively will be pivotal for Liverpool’s hopes of turning their fortunes around. The coming weeks will be critical for both the player and the club as they seek to find their rhythm and restore confidence on the pitch.
Reviewed by: News Desk
Edited with AI assistance + Human research