Cody Gakpo: How the Liverpool Forward Became an Essential Part of Arne Slot’s Premier League Leaders.

As Liverpool gears up for their derby match against Manchester United, Cody Gakpo may find himself contemplating what could have been—perhaps a different shade of red?

On Boxing Day, Gakpo marked two years since his arrival at Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven. However, his journey might have taken a different turn had Erik ten Hag successfully brought him to Manchester United in early 2022.

“But, in the end, it didn’t go through, and that’s just it. Then Liverpool came in the winter. Best decision for me,” Gakpo reflected.

This decision has proven significant, especially with United struggling in the bottom half of the table. Their forwards—Rasmus Hojlund, Joshua Zirkzee, and Marcus Rashford—are facing challenges in form and appreciation from fans. In contrast, Gakpo has emerged as a vital player for Arne Slot’s league leaders.

While Mohamed Salah has undoubtedly been Liverpool’s standout performer, leading the team with 37 goal involvements this season, Gakpo’s contributions cannot be overlooked. With five Premier League goals, many of which have come at crucial moments, Gakpo’s impact has been essential to Liverpool’s title charge. Slot is right to ask: Where would the team be without him?