Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo has fired a rallying call to fans and opponents as the Reds prepare to kick off their 2025/26 Premier League title defence against AFC Bournemouth at Anfield on Friday night.
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The reigning champions, who sealed last season’s title with four matches to spare, are looking to send an early statement in their quest to retain the crown under manager Arne Slot. With several new signings and a positive pre-season behind them, Gakpo believes Liverpool are ready to “show the world we are here again.”
Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com on Thursday, Gakpo said:
“I think everybody is eager to start. We had a good pre-season overall, obviously the last game was unfortunate, but the signings have integrated well. We worked very hard as a team, in Asia and here as well. Hopefully that results in us hitting the ground running.”
The Dutch international stressed that the squad’s chemistry is strong and that the atmosphere at Anfield will give them extra motivation for their first league opener at home since 2020, when Mohamed Salah’s hat-trick sealed a dramatic 4-3 win over Leeds United.
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“I always think with the first game of the season you want to start well, so maybe there’s a little more adrenaline than normal. Of course, Anfield is amazing. I just miss playing these games in the league. I think everybody is happy we can go,” he added.
Their opponents, Bournemouth, finished ninth last season under Andoni Iraola and will be looking to cause an upset against the champions. But Liverpool, buoyed by their summer additions and title-winning mentality, will aim to start strong and keep momentum from last season’s dominant campaign.
With kick-off at 8pm BST, all eyes will be on Anfield to see if Liverpool can deliver on Gakpo’s promise and begin their season in style.
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