Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo is under scrutiny from the Football Association (FA) following his goal celebration in Liverpool’s resounding 5-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

The Dutch international, who scored Liverpool’s third goal in the match that effectively secured the Premier League title, lifted his shirt to reveal a vest with the words “I belong to Jesus”, sparking immediate debate over football’s rules regarding personal messages.

Cody Gakpo was booked by the referee for his celebration, but further action could be taken as the FA reviews the incident. According to Law 4 of the International Football Association Board’s (IFAB) Laws of the Game, players are prohibited from displaying political, religious, or personal slogans, statements, or images on their undergarments during matches. Violating this regulation may lead to sanctions from the competition organizer, national football association, or even FIFA.

Sources within the FA suggest that while Cody Gakpo’s expression of faith was not intended as a political gesture, the rules apply regardless of intent. The governing body is expected to issue a formal warning, reminding the Dutch forward of its strict stance on such public displays. However, a ban or fine is unlikely unless the FA decides to make an example of the situation.

Gakpo’s celebration echoes past moments in football history where players publicly expressed their religious beliefs. Brazilian legend Kaká, for example, famously displayed an identical message on his undershirt after winning the 2007 UEFA Champions League final. Similarly, other players have used goal celebrations to convey personal convictions, often walking a fine line between faith and football regulations.

The debate over freedom of expression in football continues to gain traction, with many fans and pundits arguing that players should be allowed to showcase their beliefs as long as they do not promote hate or division. Others maintain that rules are in place to prevent football from becoming a platform for personal messaging, regardless of intention.

Despite the controversy, Liverpool’s dominant win over Tottenham confirmed them as Premier League champions with four matches to spare, marking the culmination of an exceptional season under manager Jürgen Klopp. While the FA’s decision on Gakpo’s celebration is still pending, it remains to be seen whether the incident will overshadow Liverpool’s title-winning performance.

For now, Gakpo remains available for Liverpool’s upcoming clash with Chelsea on May 4, unless the FA imposes further disciplinary action.

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