Shelbourne FC can confirm the signing of goalkeeper Wessel Speel on a season long loan. | OneFootball

Everyone at Shelbourne FC welcomes Wessel Speel back to Tolka Park after arriving from MLS franchise Minnesota United last summer. Prior to Speel’s arrival in Dublin, the 6ft 7in Dutchman had made three first-team appearances.

The 24 year old shot stopper rejoins the club once again on a season long loan, having spent the second half of last season in Tolka Park, where he made an immediate impact between the posts. Speel made 17 appearances, keeping six clean sheets, and saved a penalty against Qarabağ FK on his debut for the Reds in the Champions League qualifying phase.

Wessel receives a warm welcome back from everyone at Tolka Park as he joins the group for pre-season training, having arrived in Dublin on Thursday.

Speel looks forward to rejoining the squad and getting to work ahead of the 2026 season: “I’m very excited to be back and to start winning games in front of our fans. We finished Europe and the league with great momentum last year, and I’m looking forward to building on that together.”

Shelbourne FC Head Coach Joey O’Brien added: “We are delighted to get Wes back in for the 2026 season. The impact he had on the team when he came in was massive. He brought a real calmness and quality to the squad during his time with us, and he fit into the group straight away. I would also like to thank Luke and the Board for the work they have done to make this possible.”

Shelbourne FC Technical Director Luke Byrne said: “It’s brilliant news that Wessel is returning on loan for the 2026 season. He made a hugely positive impact on the team when he joined last July. He was very keen to return and is determined to help the team be successful this season. Paul Skinner has done great work identifying and working with Wes, and their relationship was a big reason why Wes was so keen to come back for 2026. He has a massive future in the game, and we are very thankful to Minnesota for trusting us with the next stage of his development as he joins Conor Walsh in an exciting and competitive goalkeeping department.”