Cody Gakpo Visits Togo to Embrace Heritage and Connect with Kids

Cody Gakpo, fresh off a successful season with Liverpool, visited Togo—his father’s homeland—to connect with his roots. Greeted warmly by the community, he participated in local customs while also giving back to kids by distributing meals and Liverpool jerseys. Amid transfer rumors, Gakpo emphasized his focus on the present as he prepares for the upcoming season.

Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo has made headlines recently by visiting Togo, his father’s homeland. Rather than opting for a typical luxury vacation, the Dutch forward embraced his heritage and connected with the local community. This trip is filled with significance as Gakpo’s father, Johnny, hails from Togo and possesses Ghanaian roots. This personal journey coincides with Gakpo’s successful season, which saw him contributing substantially to Liverpool’s 2024/25 Premier League triumph.

Fresh off his pivotal role in securing Liverpool’s title, Gakpo’s visit to Togo shows his commitment to family and cultural ties. Upon arrival, he was greeted warmly by locals who showcased their culture through traditional drumming and vibrant dance, showcasing the pride of Togo. While this wasn’t Gakpo’s inaugural visit, the enthusiasm displayed on both sides was overwhelming—an affirmation of the joy and connection shared between him and the community.

Videos of Gakpo’s visit circulated quickly online; in one particularly heartwarming clip, he was seen waving the Togolese flag during a welcome ceremony. Another delightful moment surfaced of him trying local cuisine, capturing the attention of social media users. Additionally, Gakpo engaged in generous acts by distributing meals and gifting Liverpool jerseys to local children, demonstrating his humility and thoughtfulness.

But Gakpo’s trip was not without its distractions. As he savored the experience, rumors circulated about a potential transfer to Bayern Munich. This speculation intensified following a high-profile move for Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen. When asked about this possibility, Gakpo remained tight-lipped, stating, “I haven’t heard anything about it myself. I’m closing myself off from it. Maybe my agent has heard something, but I’m focusing on myself.”

With the Togo trip concluded, Gakpo is expected to head back to Europe for a bit of relaxation ahead of the pre-season. Liverpool’s preparations for the upcoming 2025/26 season will commence with a friendly against Preston North End on July 13, coinciding with the Club World Cup final event.

Earlier, Gakpo shared a social media moment jamming to Ghanaian music, particularly enjoying Black Sherif’s song “I’m Amazed,” shortly after scoring in Liverpool’s commanding 4-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. This illustrates how deeply he connects with both his roots and his life as a footballer, encompassing pride, joy, and a touch of fun during the off-season.

Cody Gakpo’s recent trip to Togo represents a meaningful journey into his heritage, reflecting a commitment to family and community. It’s heartwarming to see a successful athlete embrace his roots while also engaging generously with local children. As transfer rumors swirl around him, Gakpo maintains focus on his current goals, aiming for a smooth transition into the next season with Liverpool. His visit to Togo underscores the blend of personal and professional life that athletes navigate in public scrutiny.

Original Source: yen.com.gh