Writing in his column for The Athletic, Ben Mee has been breaking down Cody Gakpo’s game ahead of the Netherlands’ last 16 tie against the USA.
Gakpo has, of course, been linked with a move to Liverpool lately, and Mee says that the Dutchman is a frightening prospect for any opposition defence.
Gakpo has many weapons, he stands at 6ft2 so he is a real physical presence, while his speed and agility is also incredible.
However, despite Gakpo’s physical gifts, Mee focused on his technical ability, stating that the Dutchman’s technique is reminiscent of Kevin De Bruyne in terms of his passing and his shooting.
Gakpo compared to De Bruyne
Mee discussed Gakpo’s ball-striking ability.
“There is something of Kevin De Bruyne about him, and he is developing a similar range and vision in his passing as the Manchester City forward. I’ve seen him deliver pinpoint passes with the outside of his boot, clever balls guided round the corner or into space for team-mates to collect on the run, and he clearly has a decent cross in him. He hits it like De Bruyne, too, as he showed with his finish — struck so cleanly — for the opening goal against Qatar,” Mee wrote.
The total package
It really does seem as though Gakpo has all of the tools to be a top class footballer.
He’s quick, he’s strong, he reads the game brilliantly and he can hit a ball brilliantly.
The Dutchman has what it takes to make it to the very top and that’s why clubs such as Liverpool and Arsenal are so keen on him.
It remains to be seen where Gakpo ends up, but he will certainly be playing for one of Europe’s elite clubs before too long.