Liverpool’s No. 2 goalkeeper, Caoimhín Kelleher, has been making waves on the pitch this season, stepping up in the absence of first-choice shot-stopper Alisson Becker from time to time. But it wasn’t just his performances between the sticks that caught the attention of his teammates—it was his fresh new haircut.
Walking into the AXA Training Centre in early November 2024 this season, Kelleher was immediately the subject of some classic Liverpool banter as Virgil van Dijk and Curtis Jones couldn’t resist poking fun at his stylish transformation. According to Rousingthekop the Dutch captain let out an exaggerated
“Woohoohoo!” upon seeing the Irishman’s new look before adding, “Look how fresh he looks!”
Jones, never one to let a good joke slide, playfully tugged Kelleher back while exclaiming,
“Look at the trim!”
Alexis Mac Allister, standing nearby, couldn’t help but smile as the scene unfolded.
The Transformation: From Relaxed to Refined
Kelleher’s new haircut is a noticeable departure from his previous style. The 25-year-old goalkeeper has traded in a more refined and styled haircut compared to his previous look. His current hairstyle features a neatly trimmed and well-blended undercut with the top section combed back, giving it a sleek and polished appearance. The hair on top appears to be slightly longer, styled with a natural wave, and possibly set with a light product for hold. His beard is also neatly shaped, complementing the sharper haircut.
In contrast, his older hairstyle appeared more relaxed and slightly unkempt. His hair is still parted to the side but is less structured, with a more natural, slightly messy texture. The sides are not as closely trimmed as in his recent style, giving it a fuller and less defined look. His beard also appears to be slightly longer and less shaped than present.
The transition from his previous hairstyle to his current look shows a shift towards a more mature, sophisticated, and well-groomed appearance, likely reflecting his growing presence and confidence as a key player for Liverpool.
It’s not uncommon for footballers to sport fresh trims, especially when they’re in the spotlight. But Kelleher’s new look seems to have struck a chord with his teammates, who wasted no time giving him a hard time—albeit in good spirits.
Making an Impact On and Off the Pitch
Beyond his hairstyle, Kelleher has been an invaluable asset to Liverpool during Alisson’s absence, both in the past and current season. Stepping up as the first-choice keeper when needed and showing solid performances is what he is known for, and Liverpool captain Virgil Van Dijk has heaped praise on him previously.
For example, in his breakout season in the 2021–22 campaign when Liverpool played Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League, Alison was out due to an injury and Kelleher had to step in for the Reds and he performed brilliantly and later his captain was full of praise for the Irishman and stated to The Irish Post,
I’m quite a big fan of him. He is a fantastic goalkeeper,” the Dutchman told Liverpoolfc.com after the game. He is learning from the best, in my opinion, with Alisson. His presence is good; he is confident on the ball, and he is making good saves as well.
Despite the lighthearted teasing from Van Dijk and Jones, Kelleher took it all in stride—just as he does on the pitch. If anything, the playful banter from his teammates is a testament to the camaraderie and tight-knit bond within Arne Slot’s squad. And if his fresh new trim comes with an extra dose of confidence, then Liverpool fans will be hoping it translates into even better performances on matchdays.
So, whether it’s his impressive saves or his bold new haircut, one thing’s for sure—Caoimhín Kelleher is turning heads at Liverpool, and not just for his goalkeeping skills.
