Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo and his partner, Noa van der Bij, have shared the heartbreaking news that they have lost their unborn son during pregnancy. The couple, who had been eagerly preparing to welcome their second child later this year, revealed the devastating update through an emotional statement on social media, leaving football fans around the world saddened by the tragedy.

Only a few months ago, Gakpo and Noa had joyfully announced that they were expecting another baby. In May, the pair posted a heartfelt message on Instagram to reveal that their family was about to grow once again. The couple, who welcomed their first child, Samuel, in 2024, were excited to become parents for the second time, with their baby boy expected to arrive in October. Their announcement was met with thousands of congratulatory messages from supporters, teammates, and friends, who celebrated the happy news alongside them.

However, the family’s dreams have now been replaced by unimaginable grief. On Saturday, Noa shared the painful news that their unborn son, whom they had already named Elijah Raphael Gakpo, had passed away during pregnancy. The emotional announcement was accompanied by a touching photograph showing the couple holding hands over a small blanket and a knitted baby hat, symbolic reminders of the child they had been eagerly waiting to meet.

In the heartfelt message, Noa explained that they were sharing the devastating news with broken hearts. She thanked everyone who had offered love, kindness, and support during this incredibly difficult period. Despite never having the chance to meet their son, she emphasized that Elijah would forever remain a cherished member of their family, writing that he would always be loved and would forever be their son.

The announcement immediately prompted an overwhelming response from football supporters, fellow players, and members of the wider sporting community. Thousands of fans expressed their condolences across social media, offering messages of compassion and encouragement to Gakpo and his family as they navigate one of the most painful experiences any parents can endure.

In a second Instagram Story, Noa shared another deeply personal moment that brought her comfort following the loss. She explained that the family had visited a local church to light a candle in memory of Elijah. After spending time in quiet reflection, they took their young son Samuel to the church playground nearby. What happened next left a lasting impression on the grieving parents.

According to Noa, there was only one other child playing in the playground at the time. Remarkably, that child’s name was also Elijah. She described the encounter as an extraordinary sign from God, believing it served as a reminder that their little boy would always remain close to them, even though he was no longer physically present. The unexpected coincidence brought a small measure of comfort during an otherwise heartbreaking period, reinforcing the family’s faith and giving them hope that Elijah’s memory would continue to live on.

The exact timing of the pregnancy loss has not been revealed publicly. Throughout the summer, following the conclusion of Liverpool’s domestic campaign, Noa continued to share photos and updates on social media, making it unclear when the miscarriage occurred. The couple have understandably chosen to keep many details private while focusing on supporting one another and caring for their young son.

At the time of the announcement, Gakpo was away on international duty with the Netherlands, representing his country during the FIFA Club World Cup. Meanwhile, Noa had travelled to the United States to support him during the tournament. Despite his professional commitments on the football pitch, it is clear that family remains Gakpo’s highest priority as he copes with the devastating loss alongside his partner.

The tragedy serves as a reminder that even elite athletes, often admired for their strength and resilience, face deeply personal challenges away from the spotlight. While supporters typically see footballers competing in packed stadiums and celebrating victories, moments like these reveal the human side of professional sport. Behind every player is a family experiencing life’s greatest joys and its most painful sorrows.

Pregnancy loss is a heartbreaking experience that affects countless families worldwide each year. Although many parents choose to keep such experiences private, others decide to speak openly in the hope of honoring their child’s memory and helping reduce the stigma surrounding miscarriage and pregnancy loss. By sharing their story, Gakpo and Noa have received an outpouring of compassion from people who have experienced similar grief, creating a wave of solidarity that extends far beyond the football community.

Liverpool supporters have also rallied around one of their most popular players. Messages of support have flooded social media, with fans encouraging the couple to take all the time they need to heal. Many have praised the courage it took for Noa to publicly share such an intensely personal loss, while others have expressed admiration for the strength shown by both parents during this incredibly emotional time.

Since joining Liverpool, Gakpo has become an important figure both on and off the pitch. Known for his professionalism, humility, and dedication, the Dutch international has earned widespread respect from teammates and supporters alike. News of his family’s tragedy has united football fans across rival clubs, with many setting sporting competition aside to send heartfelt condolences.

As the family begins the difficult journey of grieving, they will undoubtedly draw strength from each other and from their son Samuel. Although Elijah Raphael Gakpo never had the opportunity to enter the world, his parents’ touching tribute makes clear that he will forever hold a special place in their hearts. Their words reflected not only profound sorrow but also enduring love—a love that, in their eyes, will continue beyond loss.

For now, the football world’s focus has shifted away from results and performances, instead standing beside Cody Gakpo and Noa van der Bij during one of the most painful chapters of their lives. Supporters, teammates, and fellow professionals continue to offer prayers, sympathy, and respect as the family mourns the loss of their beloved son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, whose memory will remain with them forever.