Thursday
January 16, 2025
Jurgen Klopp, speaking in Salzburg on Tuesday, expressed his enthusiasm for his new role as global soccer head at Red Bull, while dismissing suggestions that the position is a stepping stone back into football management.
The former Liverpool manager took up the role earlier this month, nearly seven months after leaving Anfield.
“I consciously stepped away from Liverpool because I felt I was no longer the right man for the job,” Klopp explained. “But I never ruled out working again. When this opportunity came up, I wanted to be part of it, and every day I realise not only how excited I am but also how useful I can be.”
Klopp, now 57, made it clear he has no plans to return to the dugout, despite his involvement with a football empire that includes RB Leipzig, Red Bull Salzburg, and the New York Red Bulls.
“I will not be the coach of a Red Bull team; that is a clear commitment,” he stated. However, he acknowledged the unpredictability of the future, adding, “I’m probably the only person here being asked where I’ll be in five years. Nobody knows where they’ll be then.”
His association with Red Bull has drawn criticism, particularly from fans of traditional German clubs. As the former Borussia Dortmund manager, Klopp has faced backlash for aligning with RB Leipzig, a club often criticised for its corporate structure.
“I respect and accept all opinions,” Klopp said. “But the people in our clubs deserve the best, and that’s what we aim to deliver.”
Klopp also voiced strong views on the upcoming expanded FIFA Club World Cup, which will feature Red Bull Salzburg. The competition is set to take place in the United States in June and July.
“I know Salzburg are playing in the Club World Cup, but I don’t love the competition. I still think it’s useless,” he remarked. “There’s no summer break. The winner will be the poorest winner ever, having to play through the whole summer before starting the league again.”
He pointed to the growing injury crisis in European football, arguing, “At some point, we have to reduce the number of games. Less can be more. Either we have fewer games or bigger squads—there’s no other solution.”
Klopp recently visited Paris, where Red Bull has acquired a minority stake in French second-tier side Paris FC. He was impressed by the work being done but noted significant areas for improvement, particularly with the stadium, which also serves as an athletics venue.
“The first impression is great people doing a great job,” he observed. “But the circumstances aren’t fantastic. The stadium doesn’t allow for an atmosphere—it’s been a while since I’ve watched a match from so far away, even while being in the stadium. Improvements are planned, and that’s where we’ll try to help alongside the Arnault family.”
Despite the challenges, Klopp remains optimistic about the project. “They’re doing well, but there’s a long way to go,” he added.
Jurgen Klopp / FIFA Club World Cup / Red Bull Salzburg
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