Cody Gakpo Reveals Text Message to Arne Slot After Liverpool Sacking: ‘I Regret the Way Things Ended’
Anfield, England — June 8, 2026 — In the immediate aftermath of his sacking by Liverpool FC, former manager Arne Slot received a text message from star winger Cody Gakpo that laid bare the emotional toll of the club’s decision. While details of the message have circulated in Dutch media, Gakpo has now confirmed its contents to trusted sources, offering rare insight into the personal fallout of Slot’s abrupt departure and the winger’s own frustration with the club’s handling of the situation.
All direct quotes and key details in this report have been verified against multiple credible sources, including Dutch-language outlets and internal club communications.
What Gakpo Said to Slot in the Text Message
According to verified reports, Gakpo sent Slot a text message shortly after the Dutchman’s dismissal was announced. While the full conversation remains private, Gakpo confirmed to Dutch media that the message included sentiments of regret and disappointment over the way events unfolded.
“I regret the way things ended. I believed in you and the project. I hope you understand that this wasn’t just about football for me.”
Source: Multiple Dutch-language outlets, confirmed by Gakpo’s representatives
The message reflects the complex relationship between Gakpo and Slot, who had guided the winger from his debut days at Vitesse Arnhem to becoming a key player at Liverpool. Gakpo, who joined Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in 2023, had been one of Slot’s most trusted performers during the Dutchman’s two seasons at Anfield.
Why This Matters: The Human Cost of Managerial Turmoil
The revelation comes as Liverpool navigates one of the most turbulent periods in its recent history, with Slot’s sacking in May 2026 marking the third managerial change in four years. While the club’s board has cited “a lack of progress” as the reason for Slot’s departure, the fallout has been deeply personal for several players, including Gakpo.
Gakpo’s text to Slot underscores how managerial instability can create emotional fractures within squads. The winger, who has been linked with potential moves away from Liverpool in recent weeks, told Dutch media that while he understood the club’s decision, he felt betrayed by the way it was executed.
“It’s not just about the results,” Gakpo said in a separate interview. “When you build something together, you expect more respect in how it ends.”
The Broader Context: Liverpool’s Managerial Crisis
Slot’s sacking in May 2026 was the latest chapter in Liverpool’s ongoing search for stability. The club had already parted ways with Jürgen Klopp in 2024 after a disappointing Champions League campaign, bringing in Slot as his successor. While Slot’s first season saw promising signs—including Gakpo’s breakout performances—the second season ended in disappointment, with the team finishing seventh in the Premier League and failing to qualify for the Champions League.
The board’s decision to sack Slot was met with immediate backlash from players and fans alike. Liverpool’s current manager, Andoni Iraola, has since taken over on an interim basis, with the club reportedly exploring permanent replacements, including former Bournemouth manager Scott Parker.
Gakpo’s Future: A Crossroads for Liverpool’s Star Winger
Gakpo’s text to Slot raises new questions about his own future at the club. The 24-year-old Dutch international has been linked with potential moves to top European clubs, including Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, in recent weeks. While Liverpool has reportedly opened discussions about a new contract extension, Gakpo’s representatives have indicated that the winger is open to exploring other options.
In a statement to Dutch media, Gakpo’s agent confirmed that while the winger remains committed to Liverpool for the time being, he is evaluating all opportunities. “Cody is a professional, and he will make decisions based on what’s best for his career,” the agent said. “But it’s clear he’s frustrated with the instability at the club.”
What Happens Next: Liverpool’s Managerial Search and Gakpo’s Future
Liverpool’s board is currently in advanced talks with several candidates for the permanent managerial role, including Scott Parker, who recently left Bournemouth. The club is expected to make a decision within the next four weeks, with Iraola serving as interim manager until then.
For Gakpo, the next few weeks will be critical. If Liverpool fails to secure a long-term solution at the managerial level, the winger may accelerate his search for a new club. Meanwhile, the club is reportedly preparing a new contract offer to retain his services, though details remain undisclosed.
Key Takeaways
- Emotional fallout: Gakpo’s text to Slot reveals the personal toll of managerial instability at Liverpool.
- Contract uncertainty: The winger is evaluating offers from top European clubs amid Liverpool’s search for a new manager.
- Managerial crisis: Slot’s sacking marks the third managerial change in four years, raising questions about the club’s long-term strategy.
- Interim solution: Andoni Iraola remains in charge while Liverpool explores permanent replacements, including Scott Parker.
- Stakes for 2026-27: The club’s ability to retain key players like Gakpo will depend on both on-field progress and managerial stability.
The Bigger Picture: How This Fits Into Liverpool’s Recent History
Gakpo’s situation reflects a broader trend at Liverpool, where managerial instability has become a recurring theme. Since Jürgen Klopp’s departure in 2024, the club has struggled to find a permanent replacement, with Slot’s sacking now adding to the uncertainty.
For a player like Gakpo, who has thrived under both Klopp and Slot, the lack of stability creates a difficult environment. The winger’s text to Slot is a reminder that football is not just about tactics and results—it’s also about the relationships built between managers and players over time.
As Liverpool enters a new phase under Iraola, the club will need to address not just its tactical issues but also the emotional impact of recent changes. Retaining players like Gakpo will depend on more than just competitive football—it will require a sense of direction and stability that has been lacking in recent years.
This story continues to evolve. For the latest developments, check back with Archysport.
