We’ve all got some awkward throwback photos we’d rather not see online — and footballers are no exception.
A recent image that surfaced on social media had fans scratching their heads, doing a double take.
Why? Because it featured a current Liverpool star… wearing the kit of their fiercest rivals, Manchester United.
Wait, Is That Really Caoimhín Kelleher in a United Shirt?
Yes, you read that right.
Liverpool’s trusted backup goalkeeper, Caoimhín Kelleher, was spotted in an old photo rocking a yellow Manchester United jersey, a sight that left Reds fans both amused and stunned.
The now 26-year-old Irishman has become a fan favorite at Anfield — but this glimpse into his younger years paints a very different picture.
From Academy Prospect to Premier League Champion
Kelleher joined Liverpool’s academy at just 16 years old back in 2015.
Since making his senior debut in 2019, he’s steadily grown in stature.
Over the years, he’s racked up 22 international caps for Ireland, won the Champions League, and now holds a Premier League winner’s medal after stepping up during a key stretch this season.
When Liverpool’s number one, Alisson Becker, went down with a hamstring injury against Crystal Palace in October, Kelleher was called into action — and he delivered.
He started five straight games, helping the team stay unbeaten in that stretch and keeping their title hopes alive.
He later returned to the starting XI for a crucial Merseyside derby win when Alisson suffered a concussion.
Growing Frustration Over Limited Game Time
But while he’s proven himself capable, Kelleher has made it clear he’s not content with playing second fiddle forever. “I want to go be a number one and play week in, week out,” he said last year, openly expressing his desire for more regular football.
Despite his contributions, he’s still been limited to just 10 league appearances this season, plus a few more across cup competitions.
He even featured in the League Cup final against Newcastle at Wembley, a match Liverpool lost 2-1.
Despite these high-pressure outings, the Irishman continues to sit behind Alisson on the pecking order — and that’s not likely to change soon.
New Goalkeeping Competition on the Horizon
To make matters more complicated for Kelleher, Liverpool have already planned for the future in goal.
They’ve secured the signing of Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia — a £25 million deal that brings more competition to the squad.
Though the Georgian international won’t join the team until the summer, it signals that the club is preparing for long-term depth between the posts.
What’s Next for Caoimhín Kelleher?
So, what does the future hold for Kelleher? With another talented keeper arriving, and his own ambitions to start regularly, a move away from Anfield might be on the cards.
He’s proven himself more than capable at the top level — and there are surely clubs that would welcome a No. 1 of his quality.
Could Kelleher Finally Get His Shot as First-Choice Keeper Elsewhere?
Should he stay and keep fighting for minutes, or is it time he finds a new home where he can finally be the main man between the sticks?