Cody Gakpo is set to embrace a dynamic new role for Liverpool this season, a strategic shift following the high-profile signing of Bradley Barcola. Despite the increased competition up front, transfer expert Pete O’Rourke confirms the Dutch international remains a crucial element in manager Andoni Iraola’s tactical plans.
Barcola’s recent second-half appearance during Liverpool’s 2-0 win against Ipswich Town offered a clear indication of the evolving attacking setup. As Barcola settled into his favored left-wing position, Gakpo transitioned to a more central role, highlighting the multi-positional strategy Liverpool intends to deploy.
Speaking on the Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Pete O’Rourke elaborated on Iraola’s vision for maximizing Gakpo’s versatile skill set throughout the upcoming campaign. "Cody Gakpo will get plenty of game time for Liverpool this season," O'Rourke stated. "He’s such a versatile player and Liverpool didn’t want to lose that—he can play on the left, as a number nine, and he’s been playing out on the right in games this season as well."
O'Rourke added, "That just shows his versatility and what he can bring to Andoni Iraola’s side, and with Liverpool failing to bring in a recognised right-winger, he will play plenty of minutes in that new role. That is despite the arrival of Bradley Barcola as well, who will play in his preferred left-wing position when he’s ready to make an impact at Liverpool.”
Gakpo’s significance comes after a summer window where his future at Anfield seemed uncertain, with Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur reportedly showing strong interest. Having decided to keep him, Liverpool can now leverage Gakpo’s adaptability across various attacking positions, moving beyond a sole reliance on the left flank.
Gakpo has responded to the transfer speculation by becoming one of Liverpool’s standout performers early in the season. He has already scored against Newcastle United and provided an assist against Nottingham Forest, further cementing his importance to Liverpool's attack with an influential display against Ipswich Town, where he set up both of Alexander Isak’s goals. With Barcola adding another top-tier option to the forward line, Gakpo's ability to operate effectively across the attack could prove invaluable as Liverpool competes on multiple fronts.
