Liverpool Faces New Injury Setback as Cody Gakpo Exits Early for Netherlands

Liverpool’s fitness worries deepened after Cody Gakpo was forced off just 17 minutes into the Netherlands’ 2-1 victory over Serbia. He left the field grimacing and clutching the lower part of his right leg, raising alarm bells for a club already dealing with an extended international window filled with multiple players facing injuries.

Gakpo had been one of Liverpool’s most promising attackers this season, contributing two goals and four assists across six games in all competitions. His sharp form under new manager Andoni Iraola has been a bright spot during the early weeks, and his sudden exit complicates matters further. Iraola’s approach demands consistency and rhythm, both of which are challenged by international call-ups and injuries.

Uncertainty Surrounding Gakpo's Condition

The Dutch coach, Xavi Hernández, confirmed that scans would be conducted to assess the severity of Gakpo’s ankle injury but offered no definite details, simply saying, "It’s his ankle, that’s all I know. Tomorrow we will know, but hopefully it’s not too important." Such cautious statements are typical before medical assessments, but Liverpool fans and staff remain uneasy until the full extent is revealed.

The Impact of a Lengthy and Intense International Break

This year’s international break extends unusually long, stretching across three weeks and cramming four matches into a span usually reserved for two. This hectic schedule increases the risk of injuries due to extra travel, fatigue, and little recovery time. Clubs like Liverpool bear the burden as their players face heavier workloads and more chances to get hurt away from club care.

Other Notable Injury Cases During the Break

• Bruno Fernandes missed Portugal’s match against Norway after struggling with an injury sustained prior to the break.
• Patrick Dorgu went off injured after 30 minutes in Denmark’s win over Wales.
• Kai Havertz and Sunderland’s Brian Brobbey suffered issues in the Netherlands vs Germany draw.
• Sunderland’s Dan Ballard suffered a hamstring problem playing for Northern Ireland.
• Kylian Mbappe will be out for at least two weeks with a knee injury for France.
• Jamal Musiala pulled out after a muscle problem in warm-up versus the Netherlands.

These examples underline that the injuries are widespread, affecting clubs across Europe and highlighting the toll the international calendar takes on player health.

A Small Positive: Alexander Isak Returns Early

For Liverpool, there is a slight silver lining as Alexander Isak returned early from Sweden duty after a minor thigh issue. He played a full match and scored in Sweden’s 2-1 win over Romania but will miss the remainder of the break to recover and undergo evaluation back at Kirkby.

Isak’s early withdrawal reflects a careful approach, avoiding unnecessary risks that could cause longer-term problems. Liverpool need their attacking players fit as Iraola tries to find balance and build momentum amid squad changes this summer.

Waiting for Medical Updates and Hoping for the Best

The immediate focus is on the results of Gakpo’s scan and the severity of his injury. Until then, Liverpool faces uncertainty, much like other clubs dealing with injury troubles during this packed international period.

"These games matter and the calendar cannot be helped," is a common refrain, yet if players are getting injured in September due to a stretched schedule, something seems out of sync. Liverpool’s new coach requires stability, but the current situation tests the squad’s resilience early on.

For supporters, seeing a key player like Gakpo sidelined is frustrating and raises questions about the structure of the football calendar. The hope remains that the ankle injury is minor, Isak recovers swiftly, and Liverpool’s medical team can manage the challenges ahead.