Cody Gakpo’s importance to Liverpool’s changing focus suggests a departure from the Darwin Nunez model

Darwin Nunez leaves a trail of destruction in his wake, mowing down opposing goalkeepers, defenders, and even supporters behind the goals with his rampaging bull-like attacks. On the other hand, Cody Gakpo, the least explosive of Jurgen Klopp’s attackers, thrills with his consistent tactical understanding and versatility. Last season, he appeared to be Roberto Firmino’s successor, but this season, he has fallen behind, with Nunez overtaking him to become the spearhead of the attack.

Klopp’s selections in the Premier League seem to confirm the changing pecking order, with Nunez, Salah, and Jota taking the lead roles in the attack. Despite his versatility, Gakpo has not looked dynamic enough to fit the role of a true Klopp winger. His ability to drop deep and assist in midfield has been valuable in the past, but now it appears that he may have fallen out of favor as the odd man out. Despite his respectable goal-scoring record, Gakpo has not been able to secure a consistent starting role in the Premier League this season and may need to prove himself further to earn a more prominent place.