Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo will make an emotional return to PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League this week, opting to travel with the squad despite manager Jurgen Klopp resting several key players.
Gakpo, who spent 16 years at PSV after joining the club at age six before his move to Merseyside in January 2023, expressed his anticipation about returning to his former home ground. "It's a beautiful moment for me," the Dutch forward told reporters, acknowledging it would be "pretty strange" to use the away dressing room for the first time.
While nine key Liverpool players, including Mohamed Salah, Virgil Van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, were left in Liverpool to rest, Gakpo explained his presence in the traveling squad. The 25-year-old revealed that after discussing with the manager and considering his lack of playing time against Lille last week, both parties agreed it would be beneficial for him to get minutes against his former club.
The forward, who maintains a strong connection with PSV supporters, is hoping for a warm reception from the home crowd. "I think I always had a good connection with them, so I'm looking forward to seeing them again tomorrow," Gakpo said. However, he emphasized that once the match begins, the emotions will take a backseat to the task at hand. "When the game starts, I think all those things will fade away and we all will be focused on the game. With the team we have, we are here and we are going for the win," he stated.
Following Wednesday's Champions League fixture in the Netherlands, Liverpool will return to Premier League action with an away match against Bournemouth on February 1, as they continue their campaign on multiple fronts.
