Jürgen Klopp has publicly addressed the controversy surrounding his new role at Red Bull’s network of soccer clubs, emphasizing that he aimed to avoid disrupting existing relationships with his past teams in Germany. His appointment has elicited critical responses from supporters of his former clubs, particularly in Germany, following his announcement to assume this position starting next January. This marks Klopp’s first venture after departing from Liverpool at the close of last season.
In an interview published on a podcast hosted by Toni Kroos, the former Real Madrid and German international, Klopp expressed his respect for his previous clubs, declaring, “I didn’t want to step on anybody’s toes, definitely not, and personally I love all of my ex-clubs.” He acknowledged the potential discontent that any of his choices could have caused among fans, remarking, “I really don’t know what exactly I could have done for everyone to be happy.”
Many German soccer enthusiasts, particularly those aligned with Red Bull’s Leipzig team, harbor negative sentiments towards the company’s perceived corporate influence in the sport. This perception contributes to widespread criticism, especially among supporters of teams such as Borussia Dortmund, where Klopp previously coached. Fans from Mainz, one of his earlier teams where he devoted 18 years as a player and coach, have displayed banners critiquing his decision and raising questions about his sanity.
Klopp has historically held a non-critical view of Red Bull’s investment in soccer, recognizing its success in revitalizing competitive soccer in the former East Germany through the Leipzig initiative. He has also mentioned that after his departure from Liverpool—where he managed his final game in May after an impressive nine-year tenure—he intended to take an extended break from soccer.
“I’m 57, so I can still work for a couple more years but I don’t really see myself on the sideline (as a coach) for the time being,” he noted. Nevertheless, he acknowledged, “it was always clear that I wasn’t going to do nothing at all.” The opportunity with Red Bull recently emerged, and he views it as a unique and exciting prospect.
In outlining his future role, Klopp described it as primarily advisory, focusing on collaboration with coaches within the Red Bull-linked clubs. He noted the challenges that coaches often face in their roles, stating, “I always had the feeling that the coach is very, very often the loneliest person at the club.” Through this position, he aims to provide support and insight to those navigating the demands of club management.