Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo was forced off with an injury just 17 minutes into the Netherlands’ UEFA Nations League match against Serbia in Belgrade on Sunday, adding to a growing list of injury concerns for the Reds during this international break.
How the Injury Happened
Gakpo, making his second start of the international break, was on the receiving end of a heavy tackle from Serbia’s Saša Lukić around the 12th minute. Lukić was booked for the foul, and Gakpo initially attempted to play on. Five minutes later, though, he signaled to the bench that he couldn’t continue, went down for treatment, and was substituted for PSV’s Ruben van Bommel. He was pictured holding his left ankle as trainers attended to him on the pitch.
As of the most recent reports, no detailed medical update on the exact nature or severity of the injury had been released by either the Netherlands national team or Liverpool. Further assessments are expected in the coming days to determine the full extent of the issue.
Another Injury Concern for Liverpool
Gakpo’s early withdrawal adds to a difficult international break for Liverpool, coming a day after striker Alexander Isak left Sweden’s camp with a thigh injury of his own. With Liverpool facing a demanding run of fixtures against Manchester City, LASK, and Brentford immediately after the break, the club will be hoping Gakpo’s issue proves minor.
Adding to the uncertainty around the Dutch squad, midfielder Jeremie Frimpong was also left out of the matchday squad against Serbia, though it remains unclear whether that was due to fitness or a tactical decision.
Form Before the Injury
The injury comes on the back of a strong recent spell for Gakpo at international level. He was on target in the Netherlands’ previous match, scoring an injury-time equalizer in a 1-1 draw with Germany.
A Difficult Summer, Now a Renewed Commitment to Liverpool
Gakpo’s early exit is an unwelcome moment following a turbulent summer in which he was linked with moves to both Tottenham and Manchester City. Speaking to The Telegraph earlier this week, he had firmly committed himself to Liverpool’s current season, describing the months prior as challenging both on and off the pitch.
“It was a difficult summer for me, and my family, and everything surrounding football and life,” he said. “It’s a very long story. The summer was very tough regarding everything. I just let everything be and see how it came and it worked out in this way, which now it is what it is.”
He added: “We have to do the things we can control to the best of our ability. That’s the only thing I can do and the rest is out of our hands. If I have no control over the situation, I will not worry. I just do my job.”
What Happens Next
Netherlands management is expected to provide an update on Gakpo’s condition following the final whistle. Both the national team and Liverpool will now wait on further medical evaluations to determine how serious the injury is and what it could mean for his availability in the weeks ahead.
