Gakpo Reveals Liverpool’s Clear-the-Air Talks After Forest Loss

Cody Gakpo reveals Liverpool players immediately held “honest” discussions following their embarrassing 3-0 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest, highlighting the collective resolve to reverse the club’s struggles in the Premier League.

Liverpool’s Struggles Intensify After Forest Defeat

Liverpool’s recent 3-0 loss to Nottingham Forest at Anfield marked a new low for the reigning Premier League champions. The defeat exposed ongoing defensive frailties and mounting injury woes, with high-profile summer signings still struggling to adapt to Arne Slot’s tactical system. This latest setback leaves the Reds languishing in 12th position after losing eight of their first eleven matches in all competitions, a far cry from the form that secured them last season’s title.

Cody Gakpo Details Players’ ‘Honest’ Conversation

Speaking candidly after the match, Cody Gakpo shed light on the atmosphere in the dressing room. “After the game on Saturday, it was a kind of embarrassment as we lost 3-0 at home in front of our own fans. We know they are here to help us in every tough situation but we have to give them something back as well,” Gakpo admitted. He explained that the days following the loss were spent in frank discussions among the squad, emphasizing the need for accountability and togetherness.

“We tried to speak together and be honest with each other about what we have to do to perform better on the pitch. Everybody is aware we have to take responsibility on and off the pitch. That’s what we spoke about; we are honest because otherwise there’s no point in speaking,” he added.

Gakpo’s Own Season Reflects Liverpool’s Inconsistencies

Gakpo’s own output this campaign—three goals and two assists in 12 appearances—has mirrored Liverpool’s broader inconsistencies. While his contributions per 90 minutes are respectable, both he and the club’s new arrivals have faced scrutiny as performances have dipped and points have been dropped in the dying moments of key matches, including against Crystal Palace, Chelsea, and Manchester United.

“There were games we got back level and then lost in the last minutes. We’ve shown we can fight back but not maintain it. We have to not go behind and then score more goals. It does play on your mind when it happens a couple of times. That’s why we train—to change that,” said Gakpo.

Gakpo Stays Connected With PSV Roots

Despite recent challenges, Gakpo continues to draw strength from his connections at former club PSV, where he was a standout performer and Dutch footballer of the year in 2021-22. “From time to time I speak to someone. All the lads who were there when I was there. Not about the match (against Liverpool), I don’t talk about this. More about how it’s going and how they are,” he shared.

During his tenure at PSV, Gakpo tallied 55 goals in 159 matches, helping secure the Eredivisie title and two KNVB Cups. His transition to Liverpool was seen as a significant step, but the current campaign has tested his ability to adapt and lead by example.

Crucial London Clash Looms for Liverpool

Liverpool will now look to regroup as they travel to West Ham’s London Stadium for a crucial Premier League fixture. Both sides are battling poor form and significant injuries, with West Ham sitting 17th and Liverpool just above them in 12th. Despite the slump, history favors Liverpool, who have won 86 of the 153 meetings between the clubs and remain favorites for this tie.

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Opinion: Open Dialogue Can Spark a Turnaround

Liverpool’s willingness to engage in brutally honest discussions could be the catalyst needed to reignite their campaign. While results haven’t gone their way, acknowledging the shortcomings and committing to shared responsibility is a positive sign. If this unity translates onto the pitch, Liverpool have the talent to recover and challenge once again. Supporters will hope that words are soon matched by action and resilience in upcoming fixtures.