Full details of Jurgen Klopp’s shock move to become Red Bull’s ‘Global Head of Soccer’ have begun to slowly emerge and, contrary to initial reports, there is no exit clause built in even if he wants the German national team job.
The 57-year-old left his post as manager of Liverpool back in May after a successful nine-year spell in charge, having led the club to Champions League and Premier League triumphs.
He had been enjoying his time off, stating that he didn’t want to take up a coaching role and needed a rest after making his decision at the start of the year.
However, it was confirmed today that the German has agreed a deal with Red Bull from January 1 making him responsible for the international network of all football clubs under the brand’s umbrella – including Leipzig, Salzburg and New York Red Bulls.
Now the latest revelation has quashed rumours that Klopp would be free to leave as and when the Germany hotseat became free, with Bild reporting that his spanking new contract does not include a special exit clause.
Full details of Jurgen Klopp ‘s shock move to become Red Bull’s ‘Global Head of Soccer’ have begun to slowly emerge
It was confirmed today that the German has agreed a deal with Red Bull from January 1
Rumours that Klopp could replace German boss Julian Nagelsmann when he leaves are false
In fact, the former Reds man has been tied down to Red Bull for five years, ruling him out of a coaching job in the near future.
Current national team boss Julian Nagelsmann extended his contract at the helm in April to take him to the end of the 2026 World Cup.
If Klopp wants to land the role at some point, Red Bull would have to come to a compromise with the German Football Association.
It is no secret that the body is keen on the popular manager, with its director Rudi Voller previously revealing: ‘If Julian Nagelsmann were to decide at some point that he would rather coach a top club again – then of course there is no way around Jürgen Klopp. If he wants to.’
In his new position, the German will be required to advise the clubs on coaching matters, playing philosophy, development and transfers of players and head coaches.
Speaking about his new role, Klopp told the Red Bull website: ‘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. By joining Red Bull at a global level, I want to develop, improve and support the incredible football talent that we have at our disposal.
‘There are many ways that we can do this front using the elite knowledge and experience that Red Bull possesses to learning from other sports and other industries.
‘Together we can discover what is possible. 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.’
The 57-year-old left his post as manager of Liverpool back in May after a successful nine year spell in charge
This role will require Klopp to be responsible for the international network of all Red Bull football clubs – including Leipzig, Salzburg and the New York Red Bulls
German FA director Rudi Voller said: ‘If Julian Nagelsmann were to decide at some point that he would rather coach a top club again – then of course there is no way around Jürgen Klopp
Klopp insisted that he ‘could not be more excited to get involved in a project like this’
According to Sky, Oliver Mintzlaff – the current CEO of Corporate Projects and Investments at Red Bull – is responsible for Klopp’s arrival.
The 49-year-old had been pushing for Klopp to be brought in for months and has now got his wish.
Prior to his new role at Red Bull, Klopp was previously identified as a potential candidate to replace Gregg Berhalter as manager of the USA national team – before Mauricio Pochettino took up the role.