Netherlands Team Stands by Cody Gakpo After Personal Tragedy

Support for Gakpo During Difficult Times

In Guadalupe, Mexico, the Netherlands national football team has rallied around striker Cody Gakpo following the heartbreaking news of the loss of his unborn child, a tragedy he and his partner, Noa van der Bij, are currently facing. Coach Ronald Koeman and team captain Virgil van Dijk have both expressed admiration for the couple's resilience during this challenging period.

Noa van der Bij took to social media on Saturday to share the devastating news, prompting Gakpo to be granted leave to be with his family, who are currently located near the team's training base in Kansas City. The Netherlands is gearing up for their Round of 32 match against Morocco on Monday.

Coach Koeman emphasized that the team and coaching staff have extended their full support to Gakpo during this time of personal grief. He noted that Gakpo was allowed the freedom to prioritize his family without feeling pressured to return to the team immediately.

Koeman remarked, "We have done everything we can to support him, both as players and staff. In the initial days, he had the option to be with his family, and he managed the situation admirably, never indicating a desire to leave the team. He has shown remarkable strength throughout this ordeal."

Captain Virgil van Dijk echoed these sentiments, highlighting the team's commitment to understanding Gakpo's needs in light of his loss. He underscored the importance of prioritizing life’s significant matters over football, commending Gakpo and his family for their mature handling of the situation.

Van Dijk stated, "The key is to ask him what he needs. This is tragic news, reminding us that football is secondary to life's more pressing issues. While it's incredibly sad, Cody is managing it well. I have immense respect for how he and his family are coping with this difficult time."