Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo has asked for “privacy and space” following the loss of his unborn son, which was announced by his partner Noa van der Bij.
Van der Bij posted a picture on Instagram of the pair holding hands over a 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.”
She also posted a photo of a candle and cross, with the message: “We went to church to light a candle. Afterward, we walked to the church playground with our son Samuel.
