The first player has requested to leave Liverpool following Andoni Iraola's appointment as the new manager.
On 5 June 2026 GMT+7, Soccernews, a Dutch football media outlet, reported that Cody Gakpo, the Dutch national team forward, has become the first player to formally request a transfer after Andoni Iraola was officially introduced as the new coach, replacing Arne Slot.
Cody Gakpo faced heavy criticism from Liverpool fans last season during a disappointing campaign, yet he remained a regular starter under Arne Slot’s management. There were calls for 17-year-old rising star Rio N'Goumoha to take his place instead.
Recently, sources revealed that Cody Gakpo has submitted a transfer request, doubting his future at Liverpool following Arne Slot’s dismissal and fearing that Andoni Iraola’s arrival might directly affect his position in the team.
The report also stated that Atletico Madrid is closely monitoring Cody Gakpo as they seek a replacement for Antoine Griezmann, who is set to move to Orlando City in the US Major League Soccer, while Gakpo himself is reconsidering his future at Anfield.
Meanwhile, the well-known English football outlet, TeamTalk, also reported similarly that Liverpool is willing to sell Cody Gakpo this summer to reduce wage expenses, as he currently earns £250,000 per week and still has a contract running until June 2030.
A source stated, "We understand that Liverpool is open to selling Cody Gakpo this summer, and his request to transfer will not be obstructed."
*Thanks to Liverpool FC for the image
