Jurgen Klopp, the charismatic former Liverpool manager, has officially started his new role as Global Head of Soccer for Red Bull.
After a glittering nine-year career at Anfield, Klopp is shifting from the dugout to the boardroom, where he’s expected to bring his managerial expertise to a global stage.
A Well-Deserved Break Before the Next Challenge
After parting ways with Liverpool last summer, Klopp enjoyed his first Christmas off in over a decade.
The 57-year-old spent quality time with his family, hitting the ski slopes and recharging after years of intense Premier League competition.
Now, he’s ready to dive into his new position, bringing the same passion and intensity that defined his coaching career.
Getting Acquainted with the Red Bull Network
Klopp’s first task involves familiarizing himself with Red Bull’s extensive football operations.
He’s set to travel to Salzburg next week to meet his new team before heading to Munich for discussions with Mario Gomez, Red Bull’s football director.
Gomez, a former Bayern Munich and Germany striker, expressed excitement about Klopp’s arrival, emphasizing that the real work begins now.
In December, Klopp also held meetings with Red Bull’s managing director Oliver Mintzlaff and Leipzig managing director Marcel Schafer.
However, the future of RB Leipzig’s coach, Marco Rose, reportedly wasn’t on the agenda, despite the team’s struggles in the Bundesliga and Champions League this season.
A Busy Schedule Ahead
Klopp’s calendar is already packed with global responsibilities.
Starting later this month, he’ll travel to Brazil to visit Red Bull Bragantino and then head to California, where the New York Red Bulls are conducting their pre-season training.
In February, Klopp will travel to Japan to connect with Omiya Ardija and later visit Paris FC.
Despite Red Bull’s stake in Leeds United, Klopp won’t be involved with the English club, respecting his ties to Liverpool.
Facing Criticism and Standing Firm
Klopp’s decision to join Red Bull hasn’t been without controversy.
Fans of his former clubs, particularly Mainz, have criticized him for associating with a corporation often accused of exploiting German football regulations.
Supporters of Holstein Kiel even displayed banners labeling him a “gravedigger of German football” during a recent RB Leipzig match.
Addressing the backlash on Toni Kroos’ podcast in October, Klopp defended his choice.
“You can’t make decisions based on reactions,” he said.
“I love my former clubs, but I couldn’t please everyone.
I still want to work, and Red Bull provided the right opportunity.
If I had gone to Bayern, Dortmund fans would have been upset.
What should I do? Organize my life to please everyone? That’s impossible.”
Moving Forward with a Vision
Despite the criticism, Klopp is determined to make a positive impact in his new role.
His vast experience and innovative mindset are expected to bring fresh ideas to Red Bull’s football operations.
As Klopp transitions from managing on the pitch to influencing from behind the scenes, fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see how this new chapter unfolds.
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