Cody Gakpo believes Liverpool’s summer signings have quickly found their feet within the squad, thanks to strong team chemistry and familiar connections.
Ahead of the Community Shield showdown with Crystal Palace on Sunday, Gakpo shared his thoughts on pre-season preparations and the impact of the Reds’ new arrivals.
“I think we have a good group in general. That makes it maybe a little bit easier to adapt for new players to come in,” he told Liverpool FC.
“For example, Jeremie [Frimpong] and Flo [Florian Wirtz] came from the same club. Jeremie plays with the Dutch boys in the national team.
“I think they adapted well and quick—hopefully they feel at home as well.”
Several summer additions featured in last weekend’s friendly at Anfield and Gakpo knows just how important that first experience can be.
“It’s always special to play there, even for the boys who play here longer than a few months. I hope they enjoyed it.”
Cody Gakpo on Wembley for first shot at silverware
With competitive football returning this weekend, Gakpo says the squad is fully focused on lifting the Community Shield and kicking off the 2025/26 season with a win.
“I think it was a good pre-season. We worked very hard and enjoyed some good games. I think everybody is eager to start now.”
Gakpo also expects a tough test against FA Cup holders Crystal Palace.
“They didn’t win the FA Cup without quality. It’s going to be a tough game with some good players on their side and good players on our side. Hopefully [it ends] with us [getting] the win.”
Victory at Wembley would not only bring a trophy but build key momentum before the league campaign begins.
“If we can play a good game and get the trophy back home, then we have good momentum for the rest of the beginning of the season.”
ALSO READ: How much Darwin Nunez will earn per season after Al Hilal deal agreed