Jurgen Klopp has officially announced that his time away from football will come to an end in the new year, as he steps into a new role as Global Head of Soccer at Red Bull.
The 57-year-old shared his excitement in an interview with redbull.com, marking his first public comments on the position.
“After nearly 25 years as a manager, I’m thrilled to take on a project like this,” Klopp said. “Although my role has changed, my passion for the game and the people involved hasn’t dimmed in the slightest. I’m as excited as ever to get started.”
While it may sting for Liverpool fans to see Klopp’s energy and enthusiasm channeled into a new venture, there’s no denying his happiness in this fresh chapter of his career. Rather than a return to the sidelines, it seems Klopp’s new position is focused on supporting the coaches within Red Bull’s football structure, not replacing them. His objective is to help build and develop the talent within the organization, rather than using this as a stepping stone back into direct management.
Given Klopp’s loyalty and commitment, it’s clear he’ll prioritize his new role, though some of his former colleagues may be relieved by his non-competitive stance. For example, Pep Lijnders, currently managing Red Bull Salzburg, has faced challenges lately. Having his former boss join the Red Bull family could bring reassurance rather than anxiety about job security.
Additionally, Klopp’s presence within Red Bull’s global football network could be beneficial for future player negotiations. Should Liverpool ever look to sign a player linked to the Red Bull clubs, Klopp’s involvement might give them an edge.
All in all, Klopp’s return to football in this new capacity marks an exciting new chapter for him. His deep love for the game remains intact, and while Liverpool fans will miss his leadership, they can take comfort in knowing he’s pursuing a passion that still burns brightly.
COMMENTS