Cody Gakpo facing huge Andoni Iraola worry as Liverpool makes transfer decision

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Liverpool FC NewsFeaturesCody GakpoLiverpool is set to sign Victor Munoz from Osasuna, but the imminent arrival of the Spanish winger could spell trouble for Cody Gakpo's future at Anfield under new head coach Andoni IraolaCody Gakpo is under pressure at Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)The Andoni Iraola era at Liverpool has truly begun with the imminent arrival of Victor Munoz.It emerged on Wednesday that the Reds had stolen a march on Newcastle in the race for the Spanish winger after agreeing to activate the €40 million ($46 million) release clause in his Osasuna contract. The 22-year-old has already undergone his medical while on World Cup duty and is poised to sign a six-year deal before his switch to Anfield.Iraola's appointment as Liverpool's head coach was only announced earlier this month, yet the Spaniard is already set to welcome his compatriot to the club.

However, things aren't completely straightforward for the 43-year-old, as the acquisition of Munoz could have implications for Cody Gakpo's future at the club.The Dutchman has shone throughout his three-and-a-half-year stint on Merseyside but endured a disappointing 2025/26 campaign, managing just seven league goals.Beyond his most recent season, Gakpo had regularly split left-wing duties with Luis Diaz.But following the Colombian's exit last year and the club's decision not to recruit a replacement — instead offering an opportunity to Rio Ngumoha — the 27-year-old became Arne Slot's preferred option in that position.Victor Munoz is heading to Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)It's a role Gakpo genuinely found challenging, as his disappointing performances left fans frustrated, and the absence of Diaz's speed and offensive drive became progressively obvious.Fewer than 12 months have elapsed since the Netherlands international signed a new contract, but Munoz's arrival and his ability to play across the attacking positions could prompt Gakpo to seek pastures new.Liverpool can certainly command a significant transfer fee for Gakpo, who only turned 27 last month and had been a reliable performer for the Reds until this season.The rise of Ngumoha could also impact the Dutchman's situation, as the 17-year-old enjoyed an extraordinary breakthrough campaign, earning him an England debut.The winger's potential seems limitless, with his ability being recognized by Bayern Munich, who pursued him for a move before Liverpool ruled out any chance of the youngster departing.The acquisition of Munoz, who is almost five years Ngumoha's senior, will provide the teenager with appropriate competition, but doesn't possess enough prestige to obstruct the development of the Reds prodigy.The two forwards share similar attributes, both possessing explosive pace and an eagerness to take on full-backs that is increasingly uncommon in the contemporary game.Given Iraola's demanding, pressing style of play, Munoz would undoubtedly seem to be a more suitable option than Gakpo, though whether he will start the new season as Liverpool's first-choice left-winger remains to be seen.Choose Liverpool.com as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.Cody GakpoVictor MunozLiverpool FCAndoni IraolaTransfers