Gakpo sustained the injury during the Netherlands’ 2-1 victory over Serbia on Sunday, 27 September. The Liverpool forward was forced off in the 17th minute after going down following a challenge from Serbian midfielder Saša Lukić.
The Netherlands went on to secure all three points, with Mexx Meerdink scoring twice, but Gakpo’s early departure left the coaching staff awaiting further information about his condition.
Gakpo returns to Liverpool for assessment
Liverpool confirmed on Monday that Gakpo had withdrawn from international duty and would return to the club for further assessment.
The club said the forward would not take part in the Netherlands’ remaining two fixtures of the international period. While Xavi indicated after the Serbia match that he believed the injury was not serious, reports suggested Gakpo could face a spell on the sidelines.
The full extent of the injury and his return date remain subject to medical assessment.
A setback after scoring against Germany
Gakpo had been an important contributor to the Netherlands’ start under Xavi. He scored a stoppage-time equaliser in the 1-1 draw with Germany on 24 September, helping the Dutch avoid defeat in the coach’s first match in charge.
His injury against Serbia therefore came just days after he had rescued a point for his country. Meerdink’s brace secured the Netherlands’ first win of the campaign, but Gakpo’s absence leaves Xavi with another selection decision ahead of the next round of fixtures.
Netherlands face Greece next
The Netherlands are due to face Greece on 1 October before taking on Serbia again on 4 October. Gakpo will miss both matches, with the Dutch staff needing to adjust their attacking options for the remainder of the international window.
The injury is also being monitored by Liverpool, who will assess the forward’s condition before determining his availability for club football after the international break.
For Xavi, the immediate task is to maintain the Netherlands’ momentum in the Nations League while managing a squad dealing with fitness concerns. The Dutch have four points from their opening two matches, following the draw with Germany and victory over Serbia.
Gakpo’s recovery timeline has not yet been confirmed, leaving both club and country waiting for a clearer picture of the ankle injury.