Cody Gakpo is currently under scrutiny by the Football Association and could face disciplinary measures after making a bold religious statement during Liverpool’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield.
The commanding win not only thrilled home fans but also mathematically secured the Premier League title for Liverpool, with four matches left to play in the season.
Gakpo, who scored the third goal in the Reds’ dominant performance, drew attention with his post-goal celebration. The Dutch international lifted his jersey to reveal an undershirt bearing the words “I belong to Jesus,” a gesture reminiscent of Brazilian legend Kaka’s famous celebration following the 2007 UEFA Champions League final.
Although the referee immediately booked Gakpo with a yellow card for the action, the consequences might not end there. Law 4 of the International Football Association Board’s (IFAB) Laws of the Game clearly states: “Players must not reveal undergarments that show political, religious, personal slogans, statements or images… For any offence the player and/or the team will be sanctioned by the competition organiser, national football association or by FIFA.”
Given the strict interpretation of the rule, the FA is reportedly reviewing the incident in detail and considering further disciplinary action or a formal warning against Gakpo.
Although his message was rooted in personal faith and aligned with similar historic displays in the sport, the current laws of the game allow little flexibility when it comes to religious or personal expressions during matches.
With the Premier League title now officially secured by Liverpool, attention shifts to the team’s next fixtures. Gakpo is expected to feature in their high-profile showdown against Chelsea on May 4, although this remains subject to any decision the FA might make in the coming days.