Kelleher Reflects on Liverpool’s Challenges and His New Journey at Brentford

Arne Slot achieved Premier League title success in his inaugural season, but this year has posed significant challenges for Liverpool, particularly with injuries impacting their performance. Additionally, an emotional incident involving Mohamed Salah and the tragic loss of fan favorite Diogo Jota have left the team grappling with adversity.

Diogo Jota tragically passed away in July 2025 while returning to the UK for pre-season training, prompting a heartfelt response from the entire football community. Caoimhín Kelleher, who was close to Jota, expressed profound respect for his former teammates who are striving to set aside their personal grief to focus on collective goals.

The Republic of Ireland international goalkeeper, who recently concluded a decade-long association with Liverpool to join Brentford, spoke to The Independent regarding Liverpool’s current season. “From a personal standpoint, the decision to leave for first-team football was essential, especially given the tragic events. I maintain contact with several friends at Liverpool. It’s a challenging time for them, and circumstances that may not be fully understood are affecting their season. For me, being away has made it slightly easier to cope with the situation.

“It feels strange and difficult when I hear discussions about Liverpool’s players and their performances; honestly, this season transcends football for them. It’s about their well-being. While football is significant and people naturally have opinions, it’s unrealistic to expect everyone to move on quickly from such a tragedy.”

Kelleher opted to leave Liverpool after finding himself behind Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson in the team hierarchy, identifying Brentford as the perfect fit for his career.

Regarding his transfer to Brentford for £12.5 million ($17 million), he stated, “Brentford is the kind of club that is always prepared and looking toward future advancements.”

At 27, Kelleher is committed to continuous improvement, saying, “Football evolves, and sometimes it circles back. I aim to be an all-around competent goalkeeper, refining all aspects of my game. Teams have significantly advanced in set-piece strategies, requiring goalkeepers to adapt continually. Training now includes simulating the chaos we face, as teams cleverly implement blocks and contact, complicating our efforts. Often, I find myself focusing on clearing the ball rather than catching it.

“Set-pieces have transformed, and a pivotal element involves hindering goalkeepers. We must remain proactive and influence the delivery. It’s a tough challenge for us as goalkeepers, and we strive to enhance our skills in this area.”

Kelleher has become a pivotal player for Brentford this Premier League season, contributing to the team’s rise to seventh place and a chance at European qualification. He also has international ambitions, preparing for a 2026 World Cup qualification playoff against Czechia on March 26.

Should Ireland progress past that match and face either Denmark or North Macedonia, they would secure a spot in their first World Cup since 2002, a milestone Kelleher is eager to achieve alongside his former Liverpool teammates.