20 Aug 2026 14:26:45
Anyone think AI will use Gakpo as a right footed RW, get to the byline and whip balls in for Isak and Wirtz coming into box late?
20 Aug 2026 16:17:24
I think that, unless we specifically recruit a RW (probably a left footed one), then I think AI will use Barcola, Gakpo, Munoz, Rio, Koumas as a fluid group across RW/LW and through the middle if Isak picks up an injury.
Interesting to see AI's interpretation of wingers in the coming season. Inverted wingers were very much a feature of the Klopp era, but with Isak/Ekitike as dedicated strikers, will it differ under Iraola?
20 Aug 2026 16:31:17
Don't think so. Gakpo is an inside forward. I can't see him hitting the byline, beating his man, and whipping the balls.
20 Aug 2026 16:34:12
Gakpo is not that type of player. He is at his best arriving at the back post to score/finish moves or cut in for a shot.
20 Aug 2026 16:38:01
When would he be able to get his 10 shots a game away? Bloke would be miserable out there. ?
20 Aug 2026 16:43:21
Possibly if we don't bring in a RW, but primarily I see Gakpo rotating with Isak and Barcola. I think Iraola himself is yet to decide on what exactly will happen on the right, obviously he has ideas, but he'll have to see who actually performs out there.
20 Aug 2026 16:52:39
Gakpo has been our best player last few games, hope we don't sell and Iraola can get him back to 17 goals a season plus player.
20 Aug 2026 17:15:14
I don't think so. He's never really been used there. I suspect Rio and Munoz will be used there, and there's probably also credence in the Minteh bid, so that could be the medium term solution to the rw gap.
I think if Barcola comes in, and Minteh, there's a big chance Cody leaves.
20 Aug 2026 17:23:21
Frimpong would be the most likely if Rio and Munoz can't play, I imagine. Still need to get someone in!
20 Aug 2026 17:38:16
We tried Gakpo, Diaz on rw for a while when Salah was at AFCON... they were both terrible there. It's a no from me.
20 Aug 2026 17:44:31
I wonder where De Zerbi will use him?
20 Aug 2026 18:14:32
If Iraola is so good at improving every player, then surely a player who has 39 league goals and assists the last 3 seasons is worth keeping to be improved.