Van Dijk backs Gakpo to build on Liverpool revival after painful summer

Virgil van Dijk says nobody outside Liverpool can fully understand what Cody Gakpo has endured, after his Netherlands team-mate helped the club secure their first win of the season.

Gakpo supplied both assists for Alexander Isak in Liverpool’s victory over Ipswich Town on Friday evening, continuing an impressive start to the new campaign. The Netherlands forward has scored once and created three goals so far, with his latest contribution setting up both of Isak’s goals.

The performance came after a turbulent and painful summer for Gakpo. His wife lost her pregnancy while he was taking part in the most recent World Cup, before the forward became involved in advanced negotiations over a move to Manchester City worth close to £80m. The transfer ultimately did not go through and Gakpo remained at Anfield.

Van Dijk, Liverpool’s captain, said Gakpo’s recent displays reflected his determination to make a decisive contribution to the team despite the difficulties he had faced.

“I don’t think anyone truly realises what Gakpo has been through; it is not easy at all for those outside the team,” Van Dijk said in comments reported by the Daily Mail.

“But the reality is that he is here with us and wants to be a decisive player, which he has already proved in recent matches. Now we have to focus on the next challenge.”

Van Dijk had previously urged his fellow Dutchman to stay at Liverpool and said he was delighted that Gakpo had remained with the club.

The captain believes Gakpo’s importance extends beyond his early-season form and includes the contributions he has made during previous campaigns.

“His impact is not only something from this season; it also stretches back over the past seasons,” Van Dijk added. “I am very happy with his decision to stay and I am looking forward to seeing more strong performances from him.”

Gakpo’s latest assists played a central role in Isak’s standout display. The Sweden striker scored twice after recovering from a serious injury and adapting to the pressure of a high-value move to Liverpool.

Van Dijk said Isak’s progress had been particularly impressive given the time normally required to recover from such an injury.

“He suffered a serious injury and any other player would have needed a long time to recover from it,” said Van Dijk. “Isak worked hard behind the scenes and, despite the significant pressure that comes with moving for a large fee, he produced excellent performances at the World Cup and during pre-season. This is only the beginning of what he can offer.”

The Dutch defender’s comments underline the contrasting personal circumstances behind Liverpool’s latest attacking display. Gakpo responded to a difficult period with a two-assist performance, while Isak marked his return to full impact with a brace as Liverpool claimed their first victory of the season.