Why Cody Gakpo faces FA action after copying Kaka's iconic celebration in Tottenham win
Cody Gakpo's celebratory gesture during Liverpool's 5-1 victory over Tottenham has prompted potential FA disciplinary action. After scoring a goal, Gakpo revealed a shirt with the message 'I belong to Jesus,' reminiscent of Kaka's 2007 celebration, leading to an immediate yellow card for breaching kit regulations. The FA is considering further action due to the violation of rules against displaying personal, political, or religious messages on clothing, as stipulated by Law 4 of the IFAB rulebook. This incident has reignited debates over the intersection of faith and football, with critics questioning the FA's consistency in enforcing these regulations. Gakpo's focus will soon return to the field as Liverpool prepares to face Chelsea, hoping to avoid further controversy by letting his performance speak for itself.
Cody Gakpo's celebration during Liverpool's emphatic win over Tottenham involved lifting his shirt to reveal a religious message, which resulted in a yellow card due to breach of kit regulations.
The FA is deliberating further action against Gakpo for potentially violating uniform rules that prohibit the display of personal, political, or religious slogans, as outlined in Law 4 of the IFAB rulebook.
Gakpo's intention was likely sincere and without malice, but the regulations leave little room for personal interpretations, compelling the FA to consider disciplinary measures.
The incident has sparked discussions about the FA's approach to religious expressions in football, echoing past controversies involving other players like Marc Guehi and Sam Morsy.
As Liverpool prepares for their upcoming match against Chelsea, Gakpo is expected to focus on his gameplay, steering clear of any actions that might lead to further scrutiny from the FA.
Cody Gakpo delivered one of his finest moments in a Liverpool shirt during a thrilling 5-1 win over Tottenham.
His first-half goal was more than just another notch on the scoreboard — it was the moment Liverpool fans could finally pop the title confetti.
But as the Dutchman lifted his shirt to reveal a religious message reading “I belong to Jesus,” he may have also lifted the lid on a fresh round of controversy.
The celebration, reminiscent of Kaka’s iconic gesture in 2007, earned Gakpo an immediate yellow card for breaching kit regulations.
However, what followed could be more serious.
The FA is now considering further action for what it sees as a potential violation of uniform rules that prohibit personal, political, or religious messages on clothing.
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Why Cody Gakpo faces FA action?
Football’s Laws are clear, even if the players’ intentions aren’t always rebellious.
According to Law 4 of the IFAB rulebook, players must not reveal undergarments with “political, religious, or personal slogans.” The wording is stricter than a high defensive line in the 90th minute.
While Gakpo’s moment was heartfelt, and likely meant no harm, the FA’s stance leaves little room for divine interpretation.
As of now, a formal reprimand could be incoming. Whether it's just a warning or something more — like a fine — remains to be seen.
The incident has also sparked fresh debate over how football deals with faith. Recent cases, including Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi and Ipswich’s Sam Morsy, raised similar questions.
Critics argue the FA’s approach isn’t exactly playing a level ball.
Still, Gakpo won’t have long to dwell. Liverpool face Chelsea on May 4, and fans will be hoping he lets his boots do the talking — without any extra messaging involved.
Looks like Gakpo’s celebration hit more than just the headlines. This time, the gospel according to Cody might land him in the FA’s bad books.