Jurgen Klopp has spoken out on his new job with Red Bull.The 57-year-old will take up the role of global head of soccer at Red Bull from January 1, 2025, which means he will work once more alongside Red Bull Sazlburg manager Pep Lijnders.
The Dutchman spent six years as Klopp’s No.2 at Liverpool, and currently has Salzburg fifth in the Austrian Bundesliga.
And Klopp, who initially pledged to take a year out of the game after waving goodbye to Anfield, says he is relishing returning in a non-management role.
“After almost 25 years on the sideline, I could not be more excited to get involved in a project like this,” he said. “The role may have changed but my passion for football and the people who make the game what it is has not.
“By joining Red Bull at a global level, I want to develop, improve and support the incredible football talent that we have at our disposal. There are many ways that we can do this front using the elite knowledge and experience that Red Bull possesses to learning from other sports and other industries. Together we can discover what is possible.”
Klopp admitted he has been in contact with Lijnders, as well as coaches of the other Red Bull clubs. However, he implied his role would be advisory and he would not be responsible for team decisions.
“I see my role primarily as a mentor for the coaches and management of the Red Bull clubs but ultimately, I am one part of an organisation that is unique, innovative and forward looking,” he added. “As I said, this could not excite me more.”
The development may come as a shock to some, with Klopp initially expected to return in a senior role to ex-club Borussia Dortmund. Indeed, in September, he returned to the Westfalenstadion to play a part in a special farewell match for Jakub Blaszczykowski and Lukasz Piszczek.
Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke however, has claimed he already knew about the development. “For me, it was no surprise because we had spoken about it personally. I wish Jurgen, as always, good luck in his new job.”
The terms of Klopp’s deal with Red Bull have not been disclosed. However, the company say they have come to a ‘long-term’ agreement, although the 57-year-old has reportedly put provisions in place to enable him to return to management.
An ‘exit clause’ has reportedly been inserted into his contract which would allow him to become the head coach of the Germany if he is approached for the role. Julian Nagelsmann is currently set to be in charge until after the 2026 World Cup.
