Jurgen Klopp bites back at critics of 'outstanding' Red Bull move

Tom Weber

Updated: 30 Oct 2024 17:42 GMT
4 min read

Jurgen Klopp has broken his silence on his controversial decision to join Red Bull.

The former Liverpool manager shocked the world of football when it was announced earlier this year that he would cut his sabbatical short to begin working as Red Bull's Head of Global Soccer from January 1, 2025.

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It was a decision that caused outrage in his native Germany as his new role would see one of the most universally loved figures in the country advise one of the most despised clubs in the Bundesliga, RB Leipzig.

Klopp, of course, will also work with Red Bull's other clubs, such as RB Salzburg, RB Bragantino, New York Red Bulls and Japanese outfit Omiya Ardija, but the fact that the 57-year-old is now associated with Leipzig left many speechless and disappointed.

Speaking to Toni Kross and his brother Felix for their podcast Einfach mal Luppen, the legendary coach has now explained his decision in detail.

Klopp on Red Bull move

The former Real Madrid star quizzed Klopp on his move, prefacing his question by pointing out that the reaction in Germany was a whole lot more negative than in other parts of the world.

"First of all, you can't make decisions based on the reactions you will get. Of course, it was obvious that the reaction would be different in Germany because the football there is different from other leagues," Klopp began.

"You played in Spain for ages, I lived in England for nine years, our owners were not previously club members and didn't buy the respective clubs purely for fun. Despite this, Liverpool is a super emotional club where different topics are important.

"When the transfer window opens, it's always, 'why are we not spending more?' Therefore, I'm used to this stuff. I have to admit, I have never been that critical of Red Bull - and I know you're barely even allowed to say that!

"I am 57 and can still work a few more years. But I did not see myself on the sidelines for now. It was clear for me that I would do something. So then Red Bull came and for me it is outstanding, I can't lie.

"I can't do a lot, but I know a thing or two about football and that's the crux here. The other reason is that I have always felt that you're often the loneliest person at the club as a coach. You're appointed, they bring out the red carpet, you're told, 'you're the best,' then you lose two games and have a problem.

"I now want to be a partner. The role is called Head of Global Football but I'm really an advisor, someone who can hopefully provide a bit of calm in certain situations and who correctly assesses things in other situations. I want to work with the coach but not meddle in his work and tell him how to do his job.

"Beyond that, I can learn, which is something I haven't done in a long time because you always have to deliver in this business and I'm genuinely excited. I did not want to step on anyone's toes. I personally love all my former clubs. I don't know what I could have done so that everyone is happy," Klopp said.