Cody Gakpo to Remain with Netherlands Squad After Loss of Unborn Child
Cody Gakpo will remain with the Netherlands squad after he and partner Noa van der Bij announced the heartbreaking loss of their unborn son, a baby they expected in October. The forward and his partner publicly shared the news and asked for privacy as the national team continues its World Cup campaign. The Dutch Football Association confirmed Gakpo’s decision following discussions with the family and team staff. Support from teammates and officials has been described as immediate and compassionate.
Announcement from Gakpo and Noa van der Bij
In separate posts on Instagram the couple confirmed that their unborn son died during the pregnancy. Noa van der Bij wrote that their hearts are heavy as they shared the news, while Cody Gakpo asked for privacy during this “very difficult time” for the family.
The posts did not provide medical details but made clear the pregnancy had been closely anticipated by the couple and their circle. The baby was due in October, and both partners emphasized their need for space to grieve and process the loss.
Dutch FA confirms conversation and decision
The Royal Dutch Football Association said it had spoken with Gakpo’s partner and with the player before announcing that he would stay with the squad. The association framed the decision as one made in consultation with the family and in consideration of Gakpo’s wishes.
Officials also emphasized that the national team would respect the family’s privacy and provide any support necessary. The federation’s statement underlined that player welfare remains a priority during major tournaments.
Team response and support measures
Teammates and coaching staff have rallied around Gakpo since the announcement, offering emotional support and practical assistance. Team sources indicated that staff are coordinating access to counseling and family liaisons to help the player and his partner cope while travel and tournament commitments continue.
The squad’s response reflects increasing attention to mental health and family welfare within elite sport. Team management said they will continue to balance the player’s personal needs with team obligations as the competition progresses.
Gakpo’s role in the Netherlands campaign
Cody Gakpo has been a regular presence in the Dutch side, contributing on and off the field as a forward. His decision to remain with the national team underscores both his professional commitment and the importance of the support network within the squad.
Coaches have indicated that while Gakpo will stay with the team, they will remain flexible about his availability for training and matches. The arrangement allows him to be present with teammates while being granted the privacy and space he requested.
Public reaction and calls for privacy
Fans and public figures have offered condolences across social media, while many also heeded the couple’s request to respect their privacy. Observers noted a mix of sympathy and calls for restraint, reflecting broader debates about public scrutiny when athletes face personal tragedies.
Club officials and former teammates also sent messages of support, emphasizing that families of professional players are entitled to dignity and quiet in times of mourning. Requests for interviews or speculative commentary have been discouraged by those close to the player.
Background on Gakpo’s career and personal life
Cody Gakpo rose through the Dutch ranks to become one of the Netherlands’ prominent attacking players, earning recognition at both club and international level. He and Noa van der Bij had publicly shared aspects of their life together, and news of the pregnancy had been met with public congratulations before the recent loss.
The player’s professional trajectory and personal milestones have often been followed closely by fans and media, which has prompted teammates and officials to stress sensitive handling of the family’s situation now.
The couple’s announcement is a reminder of the human realities behind elite sport, and the Dutch federation has pledged continued respect for their privacy while providing support as needed.