A hugely talented winger, Cody Gakpo’s reputation is set to soar this season at PSV Eindhoven. 

  • By Michael Bell
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Born in Eindhoven, Gakpo was drafted into the PSV academy at the age of seven and has since grown his reputation through the various age groups.

In November of 2016, Gakpo made his professional debut as a substitute in Jong PSV’s 1-0 defeat to Helmond Sport. The winger also starred for the U19’s in the UEFA Youth League, scoring twice in a 6-0 win over Rostov. Last season, Gakpo started the season in the u19’s, scoring seven goals in thirteen games before becoming a regular for Jong PSV. Gakpo excelled in the Eerste Divisie and seven goals in 12 games earned the forward his first-team debut against Feyenoord.

PSV handed Gakpo a bumper new deal this summer and Mark van Bommel’s first act as the new boss was to promote the winger permanently to the first team.

Style of Play

While Bergwijn, Lozano and Malen are all short wingers with a low centre of gravity, Gakpo is taller and offers Van Bommel a different option. He is strong, direct and lightning quick with a powerful right-foot.

Gakpo can play on either wing but could also provide back-up to Luuk de Jong as a striker. He played through the middle during the friendly with Panathinaikos and hammered a strike into the top corner from outside the box.

The winger is unpredictable and has the talent to score exceptional goals, showcased by a stunning overhead kick in pre-season.

What to expect from Gakpo this season

Gakpo’s rise from the U19’s to first team last season was rapid and he is set to have his breakthrough year in the Eredivisie. He will start as the fourth choice winger but should see regular action in the league, Europe and KNVB Cup.

As a local lad ,he is already a fans favourite and everyone in Eindhoven is keen to see more from the youngster this season. He could follow in the footsteps of Memphis Depay and Steven Bergwijn and become the next PSV graduate to make a name for himself in the Boeren’s attack.




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