Nations League
Gakpo's ankle injury deepens Liverpool's worries
Cody Gakpo has pulled out of the Netherlands squad after sustaining an ankle injury in the first half of their Nations League win over Serbia on Sunday evening. The 27‑year‑old forward was forced off after a challenge from Ipswich midfielder Sasa Lukic and will now return to Liverpool for further medical assessment.
International withdrawal
Liverpool confirmed on Monday that Gakpo will miss the remaining two Nations League fixtures against Greece and the return match with Serbia. The club said the Dutch striker will undergo a full evaluation by its medical staff before any decision on his fitness is taken.
Impact on Liverpool
Gakpo has enjoyed a strong start to the season for the Reds, contributing two goals and four assists. His absence adds to the injury list that already includes striker Alexander Isak, who returned to the club after a minor thigh problem while representing Sweden.
Manager Andoni Iraola now faces a dilemma ahead of Liverpool's first Premier League game after the international break, a home clash with Manchester City. The extent of Gakpo's injury remains unknown, leaving his availability for that match in doubt.
Liverpool investigates Gakpo's ankle injury after Nations League loss
Isak’s situation was confirmed by Sweden manager Graham Potter, who described the issue as a minor thigh problem that will keep the Swede out of the upcoming international games. Both forwards are expected to be assessed on Merseyside in the coming days.
The Netherlands' 2‑1 victory over Serbia, in which Gakpo limped off after 17 minutes, was their second win of the Nations League campaign. The match saw the Dutch side hold on despite the early loss of their key attacker.
Ankle injury, Cody Gakpo leaves the Netherlands squad because
With the Reds already coping with the loss of Isak, Gakpo’s injury represents another blow for Liverpool during the international break, heightening concerns over the attacking options available for the crucial fixture against Manchester City.