Liverpool and Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo is known for his electric pace and clinical finishing on the pitch, but the 27-year-old’s private world revolves around a much smaller, more precious circle: his partner, Noa van der Bij, and their young son, Samuel. While Gakpo typically keeps his personal life guarded, the couple’s journey as a family has recently been thrust into the spotlight under the most heartbreaking of circumstances.
Gakpo and his longtime partner, model Noa van der Bij, have been together since at least 2021. They welcomed their first child, a son named Samuël Seth Gakpo, on April 24, 2025. The proud father marked the occasion with a touching tribute, writing, “One year ago, you came into our lives and changed everything in the most beautiful way. Today we celebrate you — our little happy boy, our everything”. The couple, who are not yet officially married but are widely referred to as partners, announced they were expecting their second child in May 2026, with the baby due in October.
You Might Like: Sylvia Rhone: The Trailblazing Executive and the Family Behind Her Success
A Devastating Loss Amidst the World Cup
What should have been a time of joyful anticipation turned to tragedy just weeks later. In late June 2026, while Cody Gakpo was representing the Netherlands at the FIFA World Cup, the couple shared the devastating news that their unborn son had passed away during pregnancy. Van der Bij broke the news on social media with a poignant photograph of the couple holding hands over a small blanket and knitted hat. “With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy,” she wrote. “Thank you for your love and support. Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Forever loved. Forever our son.”
In a display of profound faith and resilience, van der Bij later shared a photo of a candle lit in a church. She described walking to the church playground with their son Samuel afterward. “There was only one other child there. His name was Elijah,” she wrote. “There could not have been a more beautiful sign from God. He reminded us that our little boy is never far away”. Gakpo, who was on international duty, also posted a request for privacy, stating, “This is an incredibly difficult time for our family. We kindly ask for our privacy and space”.
The Strength of a Family, On and Off the Pitch
Despite the unimaginable grief, Cody Gakpo made the difficult decision to remain with the Dutch squad for the World Cup knockout stages. Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman revealed that the staff gave Gakpo the freedom to be with his family, but the player never asked to go home. Koeman praised his maturity, stating that Gakpo had “assessed that himself and done it in his own way”. His captain, Virgil van Dijk, echoed this sentiment, expressing “lots of respect” for how Gakpo and his family handled the situation. The Dutch football association confirmed that Gakpo made the choice to stay in consultation with his partner.
Also See: Viktor Hovland’s Private Life Unlocked: Everything We Know About His 2026 Relationship
Through this tragedy, the image of the Gakpo family remains one of unity and resilience. While the world sees a star athlete, his heart belongs to Noa and their son Samuel. The couple’s decision to share their grief so openly, while also protecting their privacy, has resonated with fans worldwide. As they navigate this painful chapter, the unwavering support they have shown each other serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of profound loss, family remains the ultimate anchor.
