Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has confirmed that Cody Gakpo remains at Anfield following the collapse of a potential move to Manchester City during the final days of the 2026 summer transfer window. The Netherlands forward, 27, was the subject of late-window interest from the reigning champions, with reports indicating a valuation near the €100m mark. Despite the scale of the potential exit, Iraola has stated that retaining the attacker was a deliberate decision, citing an honest dialogue between club and player throughout the period.
Tactical rationale and squad balance
Since replacing Arne Slot in June 2026, Iraola has prioritised squad versatility over positional rigidity. The club’s recruitment strategy this summer was defined by the arrival of Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain in a deal worth £123m. While that marquee acquisition significantly bolstered the attack, the broader roster management has faced external scrutiny regarding depth in midfield and at right-back, where recent signings Ronald Araujo and Victor Munoz were brought in to address long-standing gaps. Iraola’s stance on Gakpo reflects a broader philosophy regarding his forward line. Speaking to the media on 3 September, the manager explained: "I think we would have preferred in the end to have the best players than a player for a specific position. I am used to demand all the wingers to play from both sides."
Managing the Gakpo situation
The failure to secure a suitable replacement in the closing hours of the window proved the decisive factor in Liverpool retaining Gakpo. While Manchester City’s interest was concrete, the logistical impossibility of sourcing a direct successor before the deadline effectively shuttered the move. Iraola has been keen to emphasise the transparency of the process, ensuring the player remained focused despite the uncertainty of the final week. "My relationship with Cody has been very honest from the beginning," Iraola stated. "He has played very well for us so far. He was always aware of the situation in the market. We were constantly talking. I hope we can keep him at the same level. He is in a good place physically and mentally, and I'm very happy to pick him." With the window now closed, the focus shifts to integrating the summer arrivals while ensuring the forward remains central to Iraola’s high-pressing system.
