PSG VS LIVERPOOL: Isaac now has a pre-match ritual
On Wednesday night, Isaac will be glued to the television as Liverpool takes on PSG in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 clash. In just under a week, he will step into Anfield for the decisive return leg, wishing for just one thing- his team’s qualification.
A game-day ritual with his guitar
Isaac, who has a “strong personality” (there are good days and bad days, and people don’t see the bad ones”), now has a pre-match ritual.
When he goes to the stadium, he first stops at the fan zone, takes out his guitar, and sings before heading to his seat in the stands, where he joins in with “You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
At just seven years old, Isaac Kearney has become a symbol of unwavering passion for Liverpool Football Club. Despite living with Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome, he has won over the footballing world with his heartfelt renditions of Liverpool chants, strumming along on his tiny guitar. His unforgettable meeting with the club’s stars sparked a wave of admiration, as his parents shared their touching story with RMC Sport.
From Viral Sensation to Liverpool’s Lucky Charm
Isaac’s journey to fame began when a Christmas video released by Liverpool showed him meeting his favorite players. But the world first took notice of him weeks earlier when his parents posted a video on Instagram of their son, guitar in hand, passionately performing Liverpool songs. The post exploded in popularity, drawing attention to his remarkable love for the club. Moved by his enthusiasm, Liverpool invited him to their training ground, where he effortlessly bonded with Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and the rest of the squad. His ease around the players left everyone in awe.
“We learned of his condition when he was very young,” his parents, Melissa and Alan narrated. “It was a terrifying time for us. He spent a long period in intensive care after birth, and doctors kept telling us that each day could bring new challenges. When he turned two, we noticed his love for music and Liverpool songs. By three, he could sing many of the team’s anthems word for word. He watched matches non-stop, day after day, and constantly asked to visit the stadium.”
Growing up in a family of devoted Liverpool fans, Isaac stands out as the most passionate. On December 1st, shortly after meeting his idols in training, he had the honor of walking out onto the pitch with them before a huge showdown against Manchester City. Months later, he experienced his first away game at the Etihad Stadium, once again cheering on his beloved Reds against City.
“He’s living his dream now—going to matches, meeting the players,” his mother says with a beaming smile. “At home, he’s quite shy, but when he’s with the team, he lights everything up
“The emotion is written all over his face,” his mother shares. “Sometimes, he looks like he’s about to cry, clutching the club’s crest on his shirt. His dedication is unbelievable for someone his age—it constantly leaves us in awe.”
He even received A Special Invitation from Real Madrid
Isaac’s presence at Anfield has not gone unnoticed. He is now a familiar face in the stands, regularly captured by photographers, and his parents see this newfound recognition as an opportunity to shed light on his rare genetic condition.
Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome results from a missing section of chromosome 4, causing developmental delays, distinct facial features, and reduced muscle growth. The French National Health Authority (HAS) describes symptoms such as neonatal hypotonia, psychomotor impairments, and intellectual disabilities of varying severity.
“Now, more people understand this condition and the realities of living with it,” his parents say. “It was an incredibly painful and difficult period for us, but we want to turn it into something positive. We’re so proud that Isaac can represent children like him.”
His love for football knows no bounds, and his ultimate dream remains unchanged: seeing Liverpool triumph. “I can’t wait,” he exclaims ahead of the PSG showdown.
But his story has now spread far beyond England. Even Real Madrid has taken notice, extending a personal invitation for him to attend a match at the legendary Santiago Bernabéu.
“We’ve received an overwhelming amount of messages,” his mother concludes. “Real Madrid invited us, and before every home game, we get countless messages from people who want to connect with Isaac. For his birthday, he was a guest in Liverpool’s premium lounge. He’s truly adored by so many.”
