Report: Goalkeeper Decision Made For League Cup Final | OneFootball

Kelleher Set for Carabao Cup Final Start as Slot Sticks to Tradition

Liverpool’s goalkeeping hierarchy has been a talking point for some time now, and Arne Slot’s decision for the Carabao Cup final only adds to the discussion. With Caoimhin Kelleher set to start at Wembley, as reported by The Daily Mail’s Lewis Steele, the Dutch manager continues a club tradition of trusting the backup keeper in domestic cups.

It’s a choice that makes sense—Kelleher has been nothing short of outstanding when called upon. His record this season is a testament to his reliability: 17 appearances, 11 wins, four draws, and just one defeat. For a backup goalkeeper, those numbers are exceptional.

Kelleher’s Growing Reputation

The Irish international has done more than just fill in during Alisson’s absence—he has made a case for himself as a top-level goalkeeper. His performances, particularly in high-stakes matches, have led some to wonder whether he should be pushing harder for the No.1 spot.

By December, he had already recorded four clean sheets in just eight games, proving his ability to handle Premier League and European opposition alike. This isn’t a one-off run of form either—every time Kelleher has been called upon in recent years, he has delivered.

His heroics in Liverpool’s domestic cup triumphs in 2022 and 2024 only add weight to his case. At 26, he’s no longer a young prospect but a goalkeeper in his prime. The question for Liverpool is how long they can keep hold of a No.2 this good before he seeks a starting role elsewhere.

Slot’s Clear Stance on Goalkeeping Hierarchy

Despite Kelleher’s form, Arne Slot has made it clear that Alisson remains his first-choice goalkeeper. When fit, the Brazilian starts—it’s as simple as that. Even in the semi-final against Spurs, where Alisson featured in one leg, the decision was about regaining match sharpness rather than shifting the hierarchy.

Photo IMAGO

It’s a fair stance—Alisson is still one of the best goalkeepers in world football. However, it does make Kelleher’s situation an intriguing one. Liverpool will not want to lose a goalkeeper of his quality, but it’s only natural that he might seek a No.1 role elsewhere in the near future.

Another Big Moment for Kelleher

With Kelleher expected to start against Chelsea in the final, this is another opportunity for him to further cement his reputation as a big-game player. His previous heroics at Wembley are well-documented, and if he delivers again, the conversation about his future will only grow louder.

For now, though, he remains Liverpool’s go-to man in the cups, and with his track record in these competitions, few would bet against him adding another trophy to his collection on Sunday.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, the decision to start Kelleher in the Carabao Cup final isn’t surprising—but it does raise bigger questions about his long-term future at the club. While it’s reassuring to have a backup keeper of his quality, how much longer can Liverpool realistically keep him in this role?

The No.1 shirt is locked down by Alisson, and deservedly so. But Kelleher is 26 now, entering his peak years, and could easily be a starting keeper for a top European club.

For now, though, Kelleher has a job to do—another Wembley final, another chance to prove himself. Liverpool fans will hope he delivers once again.