Klopp reacts to controversial appointment: 'Didn't want to get in anyone's way'

Jürgen Klopp, who spent nine successful years as Liverpool’s manager, is taking on a new challenge as Head of Global Soccer at Red Bull.

This role signals a significant shift for Klopp, moving him from day-to-day management to a more strategic, global advisory position. His decision has stirred considerable controversy, particularly in Germany, where the media and some fans have voiced disappointment and even criticism. Red Bull, known for its corporate, high-investment approach to football, contrasts sharply with the more grassroots and community-oriented philosophies of Klopp’s former clubs, such as Mainz, Borussia Dortmund, and Liverpool. These clubs are celebrated for their fan-centered cultures, and some feel that Klopp’s new role at Red Bull stands in opposition to the principles he once embodied.

In a recent appearance on the podcast hosted by Toni Kroos and his brother Felix, Klopp openly addressed the criticism. "I didn’t want to get in anyone’s way, absolutely not. And I love all my former clubs," he explained, underlining his respect and continued attachment to the clubs that shaped his career. Klopp went on to acknowledge the difficulty of balancing public expectations with his own professional evolution. "But I honestly don’t know what I could have done to make everyone happy," he admitted. "It was always clear well, clear to me that I wouldn’t just do nothing."

Klopp emphasized that the position at Red Bull came along at a pivotal time in his career. After leaving Liverpool, he reflected on how best to use his experience, particularly his tactical insights and leadership abilities, in a way that would continue to positively impact the sport. The Red Bull opportunity aligned with this vision, he said. "And then the Red Bull opportunity came along. It was an excellent option, and I have to be honest about that." For Klopp, the decision wasn’t a rejection of his past ideals but rather a chance to apply his expertise on a broader scale. Red Bull’s ambition to create a global network of talent development resonated with his own interest in shaping the future of soccer, not just at the club level but across regions and cultures.

Klopp clarified his role as one of mentorship and support rather than hands-on management. "Basically, I’m an advisor," he said. "Hopefully, I can bring calm in certain ways and assess situations correctly to help the coaches." His goal is to contribute without overstepping or disrupting the work of the coaches and managers at Red Bull’s teams, which include RB Leipzig, Red Bull Salzburg, and New York Red Bulls, among others. Klopp noted his intent to offer insights rather than directives, having experienced firsthand as a manager how intrusive external interference can be. "I just want to support, not interfere, because I know how disruptive that can be," he explained. Instead, he envisions his role as one where he can help refine strategies and provide the Red Bull teams with guidance drawn from his wealth of experience. "I want to share my experience and contribute in the world I know best," he added, expressing optimism about the collaborative potential of his position.

While Klopp’s decision has sparked debate, his commitment to advancing soccer remains clear. His new role at Red Bull marks a continuation of his journey in the sport, albeit from a different vantage point. Many fans and analysts see this move as Klopp’s way of embracing the evolving landscape of global soccer, where multi-club ownership models like Red Bull’s are becoming more common. His expertise, they argue, could be invaluable in helping Red Bull navigate the challenges and opportunities of fostering talent across different leagues and continents.

For Klopp, this new chapter represents both a personal evolution and a broader chance to influence soccer on a global level, even if it has come with its share of controversy. His remarks on the Kroos brothers' podcast reflect a manager deeply aware of his legacy yet unafraid to challenge conventions in pursuit of growth and impact.