Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has been appointed as the global head of soccer at Red Bull, marking a significant career transition for the 57-year-old German. He will officially commence his new role on 1 January 2025, stepping into a position that is expected to leverage his extensive expertise and passion for the sport.
“After almost 25 years on the sideline, I could not be more excited to get involved in a project like this,” Klopp expressed in a statement. His enthusiasm for the game seems unwavering, as he added, “The role may have changed but my passion for football and the people who make the game what it is has not.” This sentiment highlights Klopp’s commitment to making a meaningful impact in his new capacity, even as he transitions away from the intense environment of day-to-day coaching.
Red Bull, known primarily as an energy drinks brand, has made significant investments in soccer, owning RB Leipzig in Germany’s Bundesliga, Austrian side Red Bull Salzburg, Major League Soccer’s New York Red Bulls, and Brazilian side Red Bull Bragantino. The company also acquired a minority stake in Championship club Leeds United this year and became their front-of-shirt sponsor, indicating a growing focus on strengthening their soccer presence globally.
While Klopp will not be involved in the daily operational aspects of the teams, he will play a crucial role in advising them on broader strategic matters. This includes influencing the playing philosophy, shaping transfer strategies, and fostering coaching development within the organization. Oliver Mintzlaff, the CEO of corporate projects and investments at Red Bull, praised Klopp, stating, “Jurgen Klopp is one of the greatest and most influential figures in world soccer, with extraordinary skills and charisma.” Mintzlaff believes that Klopp’s involvement will be transformative, stating that he will be a “game-changer” for Red Bull’s engagement in the international soccer landscape and its ongoing evolution.
Klopp’s impressive track record includes winning eight trophies in just nine years at Liverpool, most notably the Premier League and UEFA Champions League titles. After stepping down at the end of the previous season, he reflects on his remarkable career that began at Mainz in 2001 before moving to Borussia Dortmund in 2008, where he celebrated considerable success, including two Bundesliga championships and reaching the 2013 Champions League final. Following his resignation from Dortmund in May 2015, Klopp briefly took a sabbatical before joining Liverpool in October of that year, succeeding Brendan Rodgers.
Beyond soccer, Red Bull has diversified its portfolio into other sports, including ice hockey, extreme sports, and motorsports, possessing two teams in Formula 1. Notably, Red Bull Racing is currently the reigning champion, holding both the drivers’ and constructors’ titles, showcasing the company’s commitment to excellence across various sporting domains.
A news conference is scheduled to formally announce Klopp’s appointment in mid-January, which is expected to generate significant media interest as the soccer world anticipates how his vision and strategies will unfold in this new role.
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