Jamie Carragher believes Bradley Barcola could face a difficult battle for regular playing time at Liverpool after Cody Gakpo produced another influential performance against Ipswich on Friday
Barcola completed a £123m move from Paris Saint-Germain shortly before the transfer window closed and made his Liverpool debut as a second-half substitute in Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town.
However, it was Gakpo who stole the spotlight at Portman Road, providing two assists for Alexander Isak as Liverpool secured their first Premier League win of the season.
Gakpo delivers after failed City move
Gakpo’s performance came just days after Liverpool rejected Manchester City’s attempts to sign the Netherlands international.
The 27-year-old had reportedly been keen on a move to City after turning down interest from Tottenham, but Liverpool decided against allowing him to leave after failing to secure a replacement.
His decision to remain at Anfield is already looking like a boost for the club.
Gakpo supplied Isak for the opening goal before repeating the feat three minutes later, helping the Sweden striker score both goals in Liverpool’s comfortable victory.
He had also provided the assist for Isak in Liverpool’s previous Premier League match against Nottingham Forest, highlighting the growing understanding between the two attackers.
Carragher was quick to point out the implications for Liverpool’s new £123m signing.
“Barcola is going to struggle to get a game with this version of Gakpo,” the former Liverpool defender wrote on X.
Van Dijk backs influential winger
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk also highlighted Gakpo’s importance to the team after the victory.
“Cody was outstanding. He’s important for us and he will be important this season as well,” Van Dijk told Sky Sports.
“He showed it today, last week as well with the assist and over the last couple of years.”
Gakpo himself appeared keen to put the transfer speculation behind him and focus on Liverpool’s campaign.
“Hopefully we will do many beautiful things together. I am happy,” he said.
The arrival of Barcola provides Liverpool with another high-quality option in attack, but Gakpo’s form has immediately raised the competition for places.
With Isak now also finding his rhythm after his big-money move, Barcola may have to be patient before establishing himself as a regular starter under Andoni Iraola.
Liverpool’s victory over Ipswich moved them into the Premier League’s top five, giving the club further encouragement after a difficult start to the campaign.