Cody Gakpo delivered a masterclass performance with two assists as Liverpool defeated Ipswich Town 2-0, prompting English media to celebrate the club's narrow escape from a costly transfer blunder. Alexander Isak converted both opportunities in the opening nine minutes, showcasing the devastating chemistry developing between the Swedish striker and the Netherlands winger.
Gakpo's redemption was complete after enduring turmoil just days earlier. The 27-year-old had been told multiple times during the summer that he could leave Anfield, only to have Liverpool pull the plug on a €100 million move to Manchester City at the eleventh hour. According to reports, the transfer collapse left Gakpo angry and deeply disappointed at being denied his switch to the Etihad. Yet at Portman Road, no trace of discontent surfaced as he orchestrated Liverpool's attacking display with precision and flair.
A Turning Point in Liverpool's Season
The Daily Mail highlighted Liverpool's attacking dominance, writing that Gakpo "looked reborn" and describing the front line as "frightening" in its quality. The newspaper noted that the Dutchman had rediscovered the form that made him a sought-after target for Europe's elite clubs. Meanwhile, Bradley Barcola, Liverpool's €144 million signing from Paris Saint-Germain, remained unused on the bench—a telling detail about the squad's current balance and the impact Isak and Gakpo are having without additional attacking firepower.
The BBC observed that Isak has struggled with injuries during his first year at Liverpool, but found familiar confidence at Ipswich, where he previously scored a hat-trick for Newcastle United in a 4-0 victory. Broadcasters and tabloids alike agreed that Gakpo represents the ideal attacking partner, having shaken off any lingering frustration from the failed Manchester City deal. The Sun went furthest in its assessment, declaring that Liverpool had "accidentally avoided an unbelievable blunder" by retaining the winger—a stark reminder of how easily a club's ambitions can be derailed by a single miscalculation in the transfer market.
As Liverpool continue their campaign, the partnership between Gakpo and Isak will prove crucial to whether Arne Slot's side can sustain this early-season momentum and mount a serious challenge in the Premier League title race.
