October 9 – Former Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund manager Jurgen Klopp has been appointed global head of soccer at Red Bull as he returns to football just three months after an emotional departure from Merseyside.
Klopp, whose title will be head of global soccer, will not be involved in day-to-day operations but will advise teams on playing philosophy, transfer strategy and coaching development.
The German will begin his new role on January 1, 2025, overseeing the continued growth of the energy drinks giant in the football business sphere.
“After almost 25 years on the sideline, I could not be more excited to get involved in a project like this,” said Klopp. “The role may have changed but my passion for football and the people who make the game what it is has not.
“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.”
The energy drinks giant has expanded its presence in global football with ownership stakes across multiple leagues, notably owning Bundesliga club RB Leipzig, Austrian powerhouse Red Bull Salzburg, and Major League Soccer’s New York Red Bulls. In Brazil, the brand also controls Red Bull Bragantino.
It recently increased its involvement in English football by taking a minority stake in Championship side Leeds United earlier this year, becoming the Yorkshire club’s front-of-shirt sponsor in the process.
“Jurgen Klopp is one of the greatest and most influential figures in world soccer, with extraordinary skills and charisma,” said Oliver Mintzlaff, the company’s CEO of corporate projects and investments.
“In his role as head of soccer, he will be a game-changer for our involvement in international soccer and its continued development.”
Reports in Germany have hinted his deal with the multi-club organisation has a get-out clause that allows him to apply for the German national-team job once Julian Nagelsmann steps down.
The 37-year-old Nagelsmann penned an extension to his deal before Euro 2024 and is expected to lead the team to the 2026 World Cup.
Klopp’s contract with Red Bull has an undisclosed length and value.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1734893428labto1734893428ofdlr1734893428owedi1734893428sni@g1734893428niwe.1734893428yrrah1734893428