Championship photo sparks controversy around Liverpool star: 'Gakpo should have steered clear of this'

After winning the championship with Liverpool, Gakpo posed on the team bus with a large cigar.

The photo wasn't well-received by everyone and faced criticism for his actions.

"That's different from actively promoting it," states Robert Maaskant on the Sportnieuws.nl podcast De Maaskantine.

Maaskant understands Gakpo's actions but also adds a caveat. "I get it entirely, having done it myself. I don't smoke or drink, but I've also taken a picture with a big cigar during a championship celebration."

However, he emphasises that both coaches and players, especially at Liverpool, are role models. "You have to be aware of who's watching. You're a role model as both a coach and a player."

Maaskant points to the casual attitude towards drinking and smoking during sporting celebrations. "The nationwide consequences we face are significant and concerning. You shouldn't be endorsing that with a social media post," the currently unattached manager continues.

Nevertheless, Maaskant understands the culture surrounding such photos. "I completely understand that photos are taken and it's become a kind of tradition. But Gakpo should have steered clear of this. He could have easily put the cigar behind his back and taken the same picture, without posing with such a large cigar."

Maaskant reflects on the responsibility athletes have towards their (young) fans. "You're simply a role model as an athlete." He questions the extent to which clear regulations are needed regarding these kinds of expressions.

"All advertising for alcohol and tobacco is already banned, as is betting. These are all things football makes money from. That's worrying, because you also have to consider how the sport will survive..."

Yet Maaskant warns against overblowing the controversy. "I completely understand lighting up a cigar when celebrating a championship. But that's different from actively promoting it on social media," Maaskant concludes.

In the twentieth episode of the Sportnieuws.nl podcast De Maaskantine, the former manager gives his candid opinion on Ajax's prospective new coaching duo. Maaskant and host Rick Kraaijeveld also discuss who should be Arne Slot's new assistant, talk about Dirk Kuyt, and address some provocative statements and dilemmas.

Each episode concludes with the 'Final Stage' segment, where Maaskant analyzes the performance of successful Liverpool manager Arne Slot in England. Watch the brand new podcast episode below or check it out on Spotify or YouTube.