Liverpool midfielder Cody Gakpo reflects on his tenure in England, marking 10 months since his move from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023. The Dutch international, now 24, expresses a strong sense of belonging at Liverpool, attributing his positive experience to Jurgen Klopp’s managerial style and guidance.

Gakpo joined Liverpool for a substantial fee, initially £35 million with the potential to rise to £50 million, signing a five-and-a-half-year deal at the end of December. Klopp managed to secure Gakpo’s signature amidst competition from other top clubs, including Manchester United and Arsenal.

Arriving during a challenging period for Liverpool last season, Gakpo witnessed the team’s efforts to secure European football. This season, he has demonstrated versatility by playing in various positions, including central midfield, showcasing his adaptability and contributing to Liverpool’s success.

Despite the changes to his role within the team, Gakpo welcomes the challenges posed by Klopp, emphasizing the positive impact the Liverpool manager has had on his development. As Gakpo approaches his one-year anniversary with Liverpool, he remains optimistic about his future contributions to the club.

“It was an exciting year in which I made a beautiful journey. And still. I feel very much at home in Liverpool. Football is going well, we live nice. My girlfriend is happy and my family and friends are also experiencing everything. Then you are blessed,” he told AD.

“He immediately said in January: ‘Cody can play good pressing, he can do as a striker what Roberto Firmino did for us for years.’ I am challenged to get out of my comfort zone. I like that.”

Gakpo made his entry into the Premier League following an outstanding performance at the World Cup with the Dutch national team in Qatar. His versatility was showcased on the international stage, demonstrating proficiency on the left side of the attack—his accustomed position at Eindhoven—as well as through the middle.

During his initial months at Anfield, Gakpo was primarily utilized in a central role, serving as an understudy to the departing Liverpool icon Roberto Firmino. In this position, he displayed his goal-scoring prowess, notching seven goals in 21 appearances and contributing three assists. This successful debut period highlighted Gakpo’s adaptability and effectiveness within Klopp’s tactical setup.