It’s evident that Cody Gakpo is filled with excitement and determination as he prepares for his first final with Liverpool in the League Cup. His eagerness to contribute to the team’s success and to bid farewell to the departing manager with a trophy speaks volumes about his dedication and passion for the club.

Gakpo’s track record of scoring in every League Cup match he’s participated in so far demonstrates his ability to rise to the occasion in crucial moments. Despite the pressure of the final, he remains focused and determined to make a significant impact on the pitch.

“It’s a big thing for [the fans] and for us as well, for the club,” Gakpo told the club website.

“The manager was here, achieved great things, and we as a squad want to give him the best farewell we can give, and that means winning trophies.

“This is the first we can give ourselves and give him as well, so that gives us a little extra boost, a little extra motivation, not that we need it. It’s something we’d really like to achieve for him.”

Having experienced finals before, notably scoring for his former club PSV in the 2022 Dutch cup final as captain, Gakpo understands the magnitude of the occasion. However, he remains composed and focused, emphasizing the importance of staying in the moment and concentrating on the task at hand.

As Liverpool faces this pivotal moment in the season, Gakpo exudes confidence in the team’s abilities and the excitement of competing for trophies, which he acknowledges as the ultimate goal for players at the club. With his mindset and commitment, Gakpo is poised to play a crucial role in Liverpool’s quest for silverware in the League Cup final.

“It’s going to be an amazing experience, but for me personally, I will realise it afterwards,” the Dutchman continued.

“When you go out, you’re really focused, you know? You see it but you don’t really enjoy it, and then after the game you think, ‘Wow, the fans were really amazing!’ I’m really looking forward to it.

“I think we are in a good moment as a team, and in the season. Everybody is excited to play this game. You play a season to win trophies, and this is an opportunity for us to win one.

“You play a lot of big games at this club. This is what we live for, you know? We want to play those big games and eventually win them.”