Recently, Liverpool striker Cody Gakpo revealed for the first time the behind-the-scenes details of missing out on a move to Manchester United on the 2022 summer transfer deadline day in an exclusive interview with Camel Live.
Gakpo recalled: “It was the last day of the 2022 summer transfer window, and PSV Eindhoven were playing against Volendam at home. For several weeks before that, there were widespread reports that Manchester United wanted to sign me, but in the end they chose to sign Antony, which meant my transfer fell through.”
“After that, Leeds United and Southampton both made offers, and of course I could also choose to stay at PSV Eindhoven. But for the previous two weeks, I had been fully focused on that transfer which seemed about to happen. When the deal suddenly collapsed, I wasn’t panicking, but I was really in a state of confusion. I was honored by the recognition from the other two clubs, and although it was too late, I started praying and asking God for guidance—I just couldn’t calm down because my mind was in a mess.”
“So I made a special wish: if I scored a hat-trick, I would stay; if I scored a brace, I would choose Leeds United; if I only scored one goal, I would join Southampton. Frankly, this way of praying is really unusual, and I probably won’t do it again. But that was a difficult time in my life, and I needed faith the most to get through it.”
“Later, I scored two goals in the game, and the third goal was recorded as an own goal by the opponent, which made me hesitant. When I was substituted, I talked to Jordan Teze, who now plays for Monaco. I told him that since I scored two goals, maybe it meant I should leave. But he replied: ‘If God really wants you to stay, that third goal will be credited to you.’”
“Right before the end of the game, that goal was indeed later awarded to me. He came over and said to me: ‘Now you have your answer.’”
Gakpo eventually transferred to Liverpool for €42 million in the 2023 winter transfer window, while Manchester United signed Antony for €95 million on the 2022 summer transfer deadline day.
