Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo has requested privacy after his partner Noa van der Bij revealed that their unborn son, Elijah, passed away during pregnancy. The couple, who already have a son named Samuel, had announced in May they were expecting a second child due in October.
Devastating Announcement on Social Media
Noa van der Bij shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram on Saturday, posting a picture of the couple holding hands over a blanket and a knitted hat. Her statement read: "With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy. Thank you for your love and support. Elijah Raphael Gakpo Forever loved. Forever our son." She also posted a story of a candle lit in a church, writing: "We went to church to light a candle. Afterward, we walked to the church playground with our son Samuel. There was only one other child there. His name was Elijah. There could not have been a more beautiful sign from God He reminded us that our little boy is never far away."
Gakpo's Plea for Privacy
The 27-year-old Liverpool striker shared Noa's story to his own profile and wrote: "This is an incredibly difficult time for our family. We kindly ask for privacy and space. Thank you for understanding." The exact timing of the loss remains unclear, as Noa had continued posting on social media throughout the summer, including photos of her baby bump in early June.
International Duty and Team Support
Gakpo is currently on international duty with the Netherlands at the World Cup. Dutch publication De Telegraaf reported that he did not disembark the team bus for training four days ago but was later transported by car. The KNVB stated there was a valid reason for his absence. Liverpool fans rallied on social media, with one post seen over 213,000 times on X, expressing condolences with the message: "Sending our thoughts, love and condolences to Cody Gakpo and his family following the heartbreaking news of the loss of their baby boy. YNWA."
Upcoming Matches
Holland faces Morocco on June 30 at the Monterrey Stadium in Mexico. Gakpo has scored twice in the tournament so far. The winner will meet the victor of South Africa versus co-host Canada on July 4 in Houston, Texas.
