Jurgen Klopp’s decision to step down as Liverpool boss at the end of the 2023-24 campaign came as a huge shock to the footballing fraternity.
The German had a contract until the summer of 2026 but opted to walk away from his role two years earlier, citing tiredness as one of the main reasons behind his untimely departure.
At the time of his announcement, which was in January, Liverpool were flying high and stood a chance of winning the quadruple.
However, things quickly went south for them at the business end of the season as they were eliminated by Manchester United in the FA Cup and Atalanta in the UEFA Europa League, while Manchester City pipped them to the Premier League title.
The Reds, however, did win the Carabao Cup, which turned out to be Klopp’s last trophy at the club.
And speaking about that dreaded day in January, Cody Gakpo has revealed how the Liverpool squad reacted to Klopp’s departure.
Cody Gakpo says Liverpool squad were shocked by Jurgen Klopp’s decision
The German’s decision to the players was made shortly before it was announced to the media.
Gakpo says while the players were initially shocked, they have to quickly put it behind them and think about the season ahead as they still had a chance of competing on all fronts.
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“Obviously it was an announcement nobody saw coming,” said Gakpo on Sky Sports.
“All of the players tried to stay calm because it was in the middle of the season and we started to play a lot of games.
“It was a shocking moment but we all switched on pretty fast. The manager as well – he also wanted the best of the remaining months for himself and the club as well.”
How has Gakpo fared after Klopp’s departure?
The Dutchman was in sublime form for the Netherlands at Euro 2024 as he scored three goals for Ronald Koeman’s side.
He was deployed as a centre forward under Klopp and also played in midfield at times, which didn’t really suit his skill set.
However, under Arne Slot, he was been used as a left-winger and has continued his rich vein of form this season despite only getting a handful of opportunities.
The 25-year-old has notched up two goals and assists apiece in ten appearances across all competitions for Liverpool this season and has come into his own in his preferred position.
Luis Diaz has also raced off the blocks under the new manager, but with Gakpo breathing down his neck, he needs to be at the top of his game to keep his place in the team.
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