Gakpo to remain with Netherlands despite family tragedy

Gakpo at the World Cup

Liverpool winger Cody Gakpo has decided to stay with the Netherlands national team at the 2026 World Cup following the death of his unborn child, as confirmed by the Dutch Football Federation.

The tragic news was announced on Saturday by Gakpo's partner, Noa van der Bij, who revealed that the couple's second child, Elijah, passed away during pregnancy.

In a statement shared on social media, she wrote: "With broken hearts, we announce the devastating news that our baby passed away during pregnancy. Thank you all for your support. Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Forever loved, forever our son."

The message on Instagram

Gakpo and Van der Bij, who have been together since 2020, are already parents to a son, Samuel, born in April 2024. The couple announced they were expecting a second child about a month ago.

The Dutch Football Federation has stated that it is providing full support to Gakpo and his family, and added that the Liverpool forward has decided to remain with the national team during the tournament.

It is still unclear whether the 27-year-old will play in the World Cup Round of 32 match between the Netherlands and Morocco, which is scheduled to kick off at 03:00 CEST on Tuesday.

Gakpo has started every group stage match for the Netherlands and scored twice in the 5-1 win over Sweden.