Tactical Switch Breathing Life Into Liverpool Attacker | OneFootball

Cody Gakpo and the Rediscovery of His Best Self Under Arne Slot

Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo has been in scintillating form this season, thriving under the guidance of new manager Arne Slot. Speaking to Men in Blazers, Gakpo revealed his contentment with his repositioning to the left flank, a role that has unlocked his best attributes and brought him closer to his PSV Eindhoven days.

Left Wing Revival: A Role That Feels Like Home

For much of his early Liverpool career, Gakpo was utilised centrally by Jürgen Klopp, functioning as a false nine. While there were glimpses of brilliance, his effectiveness in that position paled compared to the dynamic displays he had delivered from the left wing for PSV and the Dutch national team.

Reflecting on this transition, Gakpo said: “It felt a little bit, for me, like the old me, like what I did at PSV as well. I feel really good in this position. I try to show my best to everybody, what I’m capable of.”

Slot’s decision to prioritise Gakpo’s natural position has already paid dividends. Gakpo has showcased his ability to take on defenders one-on-one, cutting inside onto his stronger right foot to either shoot or deliver a decisive pass. His impact has been undeniable, with six goals to his name this season, including memorable strikes against Brighton and Bayer Leverkusen.

Competition Breeds Excellence

The left flank at Liverpool is an area brimming with talent. Luis Díaz, in electric form himself, presents stiff competition for Gakpo, but the rivalry seems to be pushing both players to greater heights. Slot has been unequivocal in defining Gakpo’s role, ensuring clarity and focus.

Photo: IMAGO

As Gakpo explained: “The new manager said, ‘You have to focus on the left winger position…this is your position when you come on or when you start.’”

This clear direction has allowed Gakpo to flourish, his confidence evident in his recent performances. His versatility remains an asset, but it’s his lethal precision on the left that has turned him into a key player in Liverpool’s title charge.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Cody Gakpo’s revival on the left flank is a testament to the importance of understanding and respecting a player’s natural strengths. While Klopp’s strategy of deploying Gakpo centrally had merit, it’s clear that Slot has struck gold by restoring him to his preferred position.

For fans, the competition between Gakpo and Díaz is a dream scenario. Both players bring unique qualities to the left wing, with Gakpo’s clinical finishing and creativity complementing Díaz’s explosiveness. This depth offers Liverpool an edge in what promises to be a tightly contested Premier League season.

The revelation that Gakpo feels like “the old me” again is particularly reassuring. A confident Gakpo is a dangerous Gakpo, and his current form suggests he’s only scratching the surface of his potential. Supporters will be excited to see how he continues to evolve under Slot, with hopes that his resurgence could be the catalyst for a memorable campaign.

For Liverpool, unlocking Gakpo’s full potential could be the difference in their title ambitions. Fans will be eagerly watching as he takes on defenders, cuts inside, and delivers the moments of magic that make football so captivating.