Liverpool took the lead in the 74th minute through a stunning Dominik Szoboszlai free-kick, but Manchester City mounted a dramatic late comeback: Bernardo Silva equalized in the 84th minute with a volley from an Erling Haaland header, and Haaland converted a stoppage-time penalty (90+3’) after Alisson fouled Matheus Nunes. The match was chaotic, with Szoboszlai later sent off in added time, and fans left fuming over yet another collapse—this being the sixth stoppage-time goal conceded this season.
Gakpo, starting on the left wing (with increased responsibility after Luis Diaz’s summer departure), had a particularly poor outing that drew intense backlash:
- He was caught offside multiple times (at least three noted instances), halting promising attacks.
- Lost possession frequently (reports of 8 turnovers or similar high numbers in breakdowns).
- Failed to deliver meaningful end product, with little impact despite some key passes in patches.
- Overall, described as “useless,” “wasteful,” and lacking chemistry with teammates in fan reactions and match analyses.
This sparked widespread calls for his immediate sale on social media, forums, and fan groups. Supporters vented frustration like:
- Labeling him the “worst” or “most useless” in the squad.
- Demanding he “leave this club now” or be sold quickly to avoid further value drop.
- Arguing his performances are holding the team back from winning major honors.
While broader issues contributed—such as poor game management (as Virgil van Dijk highlighted post-match), Alisson’s error for the penalty, late subs, and defensive naivety—the spotlight on Gakpo intensified due to his visible lack of influence in a must-win rivalry game. Arne Slot’s side is now sixth in the Premier League after this result (their eighth league defeat), with one win in recent weeks, fueling wider discontent but with Gakpo as the scapegoat for many.
The defeat keeps City’s title hopes breathing (six points behind leaders Arsenal) and adds huge pressure on Liverpool’s push for a top-four finish or better. Fan patience, already thin after a title defense that’s gone off the rails, has snapped for this particular player.
