Caoimhin Kelleher, Liverpool’s long-serving goalkeeper, appears to be edging closer to the end of his journey at Anfield. The 25-year-old Irishman, who joined the club as a teenager from Cork’s Ringmahon Rangers, has spent much of his time as Alisson Becker’s understudy. However, Liverpool’s decision to secure a deal for Valencia and Georgia’s Giorgi Mamardashvili for £29m next summer seems to have complicated Kelleher’s position further.
With Alisson still firmly established as Liverpool’s number one, Mamardashvili’s arrival could push Kelleher down to third in the pecking order. Alisson, who is seven years Kelleher’s senior, shows no signs of decline and has 18 months left on his current contract, with an option to extend for another year.
Kelleher Ready for a New Chapter
Kelleher has made no secret of his desire to become a first-choice goalkeeper. Speaking in September, he expressed his ambition to play regularly, saying, “I’ve made it clear in the last few years that I want to go and be a number one.” Reflecting on Liverpool’s decision to bring in Mamardashvili, he added, “From the outside looking in, it looks like they’ve made a decision to go in a different direction.”
While Liverpool have reportedly rejected offers from Nottingham Forest and seen interest from Celtic, Kelleher’s situation seems increasingly untenable. Former Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given weighed in on the matter, highlighting the time-sensitive nature of Kelleher’s career. “He has only got one career, one life, and one opportunity at being a top goalkeeper,” Given told BBC Radio 5 Live, urging the Irishman to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Limited Opportunities Despite Talent
Kelleher’s recent performances while deputizing for the injured Alisson have underlined his capabilities, with many praising his potential as a top-level goalkeeper. Former Liverpool goalkeeper Sander Westerveld recently noted, “I think this is a moment for Kelleher to show the world what he’s capable of.”
However, with Alisson’s imminent return, Kelleher is expected to revert to the bench, further stifling his opportunities. Barring an unexpected move that would see Alisson depart, Kelleher’s future at Liverpool seems increasingly uncertain. As the season progresses, it appears ever more likely that the Irishman will seek a move at the end of the campaign to fulfill his ambition of becoming a regular starter.
