Former Feyenoord Manager Suggests Liverpool Boss Arne Slot Could Target Winger Who’s Better Than Cody Gakpo Due to Tactical Fit and Potential Impact
In the ever-changing world of football transfers, speculation surrounding potential signings is a constant source of intrigue. Recently, former Feyenoord manager Arne Slot has been at the center of such discussions, with reports suggesting that the current manager of Liverpool might target a winger who could be even better than Cody Gakpo. Slot’s tactical expertise and keen eye for talent have led to this fascinating rumor, fueling excitement and raising questions about how this potential signing could impact Liverpool’s future.
Arne Slot: A Tactical Mastermind
Arne Slot’s rise to prominence as a manager has been rapid, especially with his success at Feyenoord. Since taking charge of the Dutch club, Slot has transformed the team into one of the most dynamic and entertaining sides in Europe. His style of play is based on a high-pressing game, fast transitions, and attacking fluidity, which mirrors the principles of Liverpool’s current manager, Jurgen Klopp. It is this tactical style that has led many to believe that Slot could one day take the reins at Liverpool.
Slot’s ability to bring out the best in his players and implement an attacking strategy has drawn attention from some of Europe’s top clubs. His success in the Eredivisie and in European competitions has cemented his reputation as one of the most promising young coaches on the continent. This has led to ongoing speculation that he could be a future candidate to replace Klopp at Liverpool, a club where Slot’s playing philosophy could translate well.
Cody Gakpo’s Liverpool Journey
Cody Gakpo arrived at Liverpool in January 2023 with high expectations. The Dutch winger had been in scintillating form at PSV Eindhoven, earning widespread acclaim for his pace, dribbling, and ability to score goals from the wing. Many saw his potential as a perfect fit for Liverpool’s fast, attacking style under Klopp.
However, Gakpo’s time at Liverpool has been a mix of highs and lows. While he has certainly shown glimpses of his talent, his transition to the Premier League has not been as seamless as anticipated. Though he has contributed to the team, Gakpo has struggled to find consistent form, and his finishing has been a topic of concern at times. With Liverpool in the midst of their own squad evolution, the possibility of signing a winger with more immediate impact has become an intriguing prospect.
Arne Slot’s Potential Influence on Liverpool’s Attacking Play
While the speculation about Slot targeting a winger better than Gakpo might seem far-fetched, it is rooted in a deeper understanding of his tactical approach. Arne Slot’s style of play emphasizes fast transitions and the ability to exploit spaces in wide areas, and this could be the reason why he might look for a winger who fits his system better than Gakpo.
At Feyenoord, Slot has shown a preference for attacking players who can not only stretch the defense but also combine well in tight spaces. This requires a level of technical sophistication and adaptability—traits that can elevate a team’s attacking output. A winger better than Gakpo, according to this thinking, would be someone who offers more in terms of creativity, goal-scoring consistency, and perhaps a more rounded game.
What Makes a Winger Better Than Gakpo?
If Liverpool were to target a winger who is considered “better” than Cody Gakpo, what qualities would this player need to possess? Let’s explore some of the attributes that such a player might have:
Goal Scoring Consistency: A key area where Gakpo has shown potential but also inconsistencies is his goal-scoring. A winger who can deliver regular goals would significantly bolster Liverpool’s attacking depth. This player would need to be a proven goal-scorer in a top league, with a track record of scoring from wide positions, and offering a reliable threat in front of goal.
Dribbling and Creativity: In Slot’s system, wingers are not just expected to run the channels but also create chances and make incisive runs into the box. A winger with exceptional dribbling ability and vision would excel in this role, offering a more potent attacking threat. Unlike Gakpo, who has sometimes struggled with the final ball, a more creative player would be able to unlock opposition defenses more effectively.
Tactical Flexibility: One of the standout features of Slot’s approach is tactical fluidity. A winger who is better than Gakpo would likely need to be versatile, capable of playing across various attacking positions. This would allow him to interchange freely in Slot’s dynamic system, helping to create overloads and offer unpredictability in attack.
High Work Rate: While Gakpo certainly works hard on the pitch, a winger in Slot’s system would be required to press relentlessly and contribute defensively. Slot demands a high work rate from his players, and this includes tracking back and pressing opponents high up the pitch. A winger with a tireless work ethic would complement Liverpool’s attacking and defensive balance.
Mentality and Big-Game Experience: Slot’s system, though potent, requires players who can handle pressure, especially in big matches. A winger with the mentality to perform consistently in high-stakes situations would be invaluable for Liverpool. Given the competitive nature of the Premier League, a winger who thrives in big games could provide the final piece to Liverpool’s attacking puzzle.
Why Slot Might Target This Winger
If Arne Slot is indeed considering a move for a winger who could outshine Gakpo, it would likely be because he believes this player aligns better with his tactical philosophy and would elevate Liverpool’s already formidable attacking options. Slot’s preference for high tempo and fluid attacking football would require a winger who can exploit space, create opportunities, and contribute to the team’s pressing game.
Moreover, Slot has shown a knack for developing players into world-class talents, making him a trusted figure for bringing in players who can reach their full potential. It is likely that the winger in question would be someone who has the potential to thrive in the Premier League and under Slot’s tutelage, filling an important role in the team’s attacking structure.
The Impact of This Transfer on Liverpool’s Squad
A move for a winger who is “better than Gakpo” would not only address potential gaps in Liverpool’s attack but could also have a significant impact on the competition for starting spots. Gakpo, while talented, has faced competition from other key players such as Mohamed Salah and Diogo Jota for wide-forward roles, and a more established, versatile winger could challenge his place in the starting lineup.
Additionally, this transfer could represent a shift in Liverpool’s approach to squad building. While Klopp has generally favored established stars, Slot’s philosophy might see Liverpool targeting players with a more nuanced fit for his system—players who offer tactical versatility and a high ceiling for growth. If this winger is a player with proven ability and higher potential than Gakpo, it could be a long-term investment aimed at maintaining Liverpool’s place among Europe’s elite.
Conclusion
The possibility that Liverpool boss Arne Slot could target a winger better than Cody Gakpo raises interesting questions about the club’s future direction, both tactically and in terms of player recruitment. With Slot’s high-pressing style and focus on attacking fluidity, it is not far-fetched to believe that he would be looking for a winger who fits his system more seamlessly than Gakpo. Such a signing would likely bring added competition, versatility, and creativity to Liverpool’s attack—qualities that would make them even more dangerous in the Premier League and beyond.
As speculation continues to build, fans of Liverpool will be eagerly watching to see how Slot’s influence shapes the club’s transfer decisions in the coming seasons. Whether or not a winger who surpasses Gakpo in terms of impact will materialize, one thing is certain: Arne Slot’s presence at Liverpool could signal an exciting new chapter in the club’s quest for dominance in both domestic and international football.
