Jeremie Frimpong Names Cody Gakpo as Liverpool’s ‘Finisher’ | OneFootball

Jeremie Frimpong Labels Cody Gakpo A ‘Finisher’ As Dutch Core Grows At Liverpool

Liverpool’s successful summer recruitment has extended beyond tactical needs, focusing as well on player personality and cultural fit. The integration of Jeremie Frimpong into Arne Slot’s side is emblematic of this approach. The Dutch right-back has not only adapted quickly on the pitch but has found an immediate bond with his fellow countrymen off it.

Frimpong is now the fourth Dutch player in Liverpool’s current squad, joining compatriots Cody Gakpo, Virgil van Dijk and Ryan Gravenberch. It is a dynamic that Arne Slot, who guided Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut campaign, clearly values. The cohesion between these players could prove crucial as Liverpool seek to defend their crown and make further inroads in Europe.

Frimpong’s assist in the recent 3-1 win over Yokohama FM, where his precise cross was converted by teenager Trey Nyoni, was a glimpse into the immediate impact he is making. But it is his insight into those around him that is perhaps even more telling.

Frimpong’s One-Word Verdict On Gakpo

When asked to sum up Cody Gakpo in a single word, Frimpong responded with “finisher”, a label that is hard to contest. The former PSV forward enjoyed a prolific 2024-25 campaign, scoring 18 goals for Liverpool and finishing joint-top scorer at Euro 2024.

His finishing prowess will be even more vital this season. With Luis Diaz now at Bayern Munich, Gakpo stands as Liverpool’s most experienced option on the left wing. Though he is versatile and has featured centrally in the past, this opportunity to cement a starting role out wide will define his season.

Liverpool are not expected to enter the market for a Diaz replacement, signalling the club’s confidence in Gakpo’s ability to shoulder the responsibility. If he continues on his current trajectory, he could easily match or surpass Diaz’s tally of 17 goals in all competitions last term.

Van Dijk: The Captain And ‘Leader’

Frimpong also offered insight into another teammate, describing captain Virgil van Dijk as a “leader” in the same video. Now 34, van Dijk remains Liverpool’s defensive cornerstone and cultural figurehead. His leadership was instrumental in the club reclaiming the league title last season, becoming the first Dutchman to captain a Premier League-winning side.

Van Dijk’s decision to extend his contract by two more years, despite lucrative offers from abroad, reinforces his commitment to the project under Slot. For younger players like Frimpong, his presence is both inspirational and instructive. The continuity of having such an experienced figure guiding the next generation is something that should not be undervalued.

Dutch Influence Could Shape Liverpool’s Future

The concentration of Dutch players in Liverpool’s squad is more than just coincidence. It is a deliberate alignment with Arne Slot’s tactical philosophy and emphasis on collective understanding. Frimpong’s early performances have already shown promise and his appreciation for his fellow Dutchmen reflects a dressing room that is unified and ambitious.

Cody Gakpo’s development into a primary goal threat will be key, and if he delivers, it will validate Slot’s decision to build on the Dutch core. With Van Dijk’s leadership, Frimpong’s energy, and Gakpo’s eye for goal, Liverpool’s Dutch contingent might yet become the defining feature of their era under Slot.