Red Bull has officially announced on Wednesday that Jurgen Klopp, former Liverpool coach, has been named Head of Global Soccer for their group of clubs including RB Leipzig. This is Klopp's first position since leaving the club earlier this year.
The 57-year-old retired coach will assume responsibility for the Group's global football activities starting from January 1st, 2025 when he takes on the position. Red Bull also has teams in New York, Brazil, and Japan, apart from their clubs in Leipzig and Salzburg.
A few months ago I said I don't see myself on the sidelines any more and that is still the case," Klopp said in a post on Instagram.
"But I still love football, I still love working and Red Bull gives me the perfect platform for that."
On Wednesday morning, Red Bull left an SID inquiry on the subject without any response. According to reports, former coach Klopp has also agreed to an exit clause that allows him to opt out of his contract for the role of German national team coach.
In a statement, Klopp said: "After almost 25 years on the sideline, I could not be more excited to get involved in a project like this."
"The role may have changed but my passion for football and the people who make the game what it is has not."
Meanwhile, last May, coach Klopp retired after almost nine successful years at Liverpool FC, having previously coached Borussia Dortmund and FSV Mainz 05. After leaving Liverpool, he also announced a break from club football.
However, in his new role, he would not be working for Red Bull on a day-to-day basis.
In a statement relaeased, Red Bull said:"He will provide strategic vision, supporting individual sporting directors in advancing the Red Bull philosophy."
Furthermore, the former Liverpool coach will also support the organisation’s global scouting operation, contributing to the training and development of coaches.
When asked about his deal with Red Bull, Klopp responded: "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. As I said, this could not excite me more."
Oliver Mintzlaff, who worked for many years as a manager at RB Leipzig and is now responsible for Red Bull's sports projects is said to be the driving force behind the coup for the group.
Oliver Mintzlaff said: "Jurgen Klopp is one of the greatest and most influential figures in world soccer, with extraordinary skills and charisma.
"In his role as head of soccer, he will be a game-changer for our involvement in international soccer and its continued development."
Red Bull also took to their official X handle @redbull at about 9:30am on Wednesday to make a post.
"... 'this could not excite me more' Jurgen Klopp. The feeling is mutual" the caption read.
