Liverpool supporters are looking forward to a new left side of their attack next season after the surprise arrival of Victor Munoz this week.
The Spaniard has been signed to add depth across the forward line, but is primarily a left-sided winger.
Although Munoz does not look like being a regular starter for Liverpool, at least not initially, his signing has thrown further doubt over the role of Cody Gakpo next season.
How does Andoni Iraola get the Netherlands version of Cody Gakpo for Liverpool?
This is not the same player 😭
Gakpo has been linked with an exit as Ngumoha looks to claim his starting spot, and Munoz coming in means Andoni Iraola now has three main options at left wing.
For many supporters, Gakpo is the one who should drop out, but while some would like to see him sold, it is surely better news to keep the strength in depth and try to get more out of the No. 18. On Saturday, during the Netherlands’ clash with Sweden at the World Cup, Gakpo showed that he should still be regarded as an important player for the Reds.
Gakpo impresses against Sweden
It has often been the case that Gakpo has turned up and looked like a different player for the Netherlands than he does for Liverpool.
It was on the back of the 2022 World Cup which the Reds decided to sign the 27-year-old, and he has continued that theme during this summer’s tournament as well.
READ MORE: Alisson delivers ‘exceptional’ World Cup performance as Brazilian media hail Liverpool goalkeeper
It took him only five minutes to register an assist against Alexander Isak’s Sweden, sliding in an inch-perfect cross for Brian Brobbey to poke home.
From there, Gakpo grew even further into the game, looking lively and direct whenever he got the ball, and eventually tapped home a third goal of the night at the start of the second-half. On commentary for BBC Sport, Alan Shearer was especially impressed.
“He’s looked really sharp hasn’t he, Gakpo,” raved Shearer. “Every time he’s had the ball he’s gone past the defender.”
Gakpo’s night soon got even better, as he lashed home an excellent fourth goal for the Netherlands. Ending the game with two goals and an assist, the much-maligned forward took his first opportunity to answer back to Liverpool’s signing of Munoz, and did it brilliantly.
How excited are you by Liverpool’s surprise signing of Victor Munoz?
And what do you think his role will be next season? Is he an immediate starter?
Gakpo resurgence is brilliant news for Liverpool fans
Although Gakpo has not been the most positive figure in the eyes of Liverpool supporters for quite some time, Saturday’s match was a good reminder of exactly what he can do.
The former PSV Eindhoven man is a very good footballer, and he is someone who can make an impact in the final third.
The 2025/26 season showed why he perhaps should not be a starter week on week for Liverpool, but he is more than good enough to play a part as a rotational option. With Munoz and Ngumoha battling him for a place, that is exactly what he could be.
Obviously, it is no good to Liverpool fans if Gakpo continues to turn up for the Netherlands and not for their own team. But with question marks growing over his future, having him in confident form and contributing in front of goal can only be good news heading into the new season.
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox
