Jürgen Klopp has defended his choice to become the worldwide head of football for Red Bull following criticism from supporters in Germany. He argues that taking up this new position is an “excellent” opportunity for him. Klopp, former manager of Liverpool for nine successful years until the end of last season, also had successful tenures at Mainz and Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga.
His move to Red Bull has caused dissatisfaction among fans of his former clubs, especially since some Bundesliga followers disapprove of Red Bull’s ownership style. Many of the clubs they control, such as RB Leipzig, have rapidly ascended through the lower leagues, largely due to Red Bull’s significant financial backing. This culminated with Leipzig reaching the Bundesliga in 2016.
Mainz fans made their displeasure known by displaying banners during a recent league match expressing their disapproval of Klopp’s move. Klopp was at Mainz first as a player and then manager for a period of 18 years.
In response to this, Klopp told Toni Kroos’ podcast that his decision should not depend on potential reactions. He admitted that at 57 years old, he believed he had several productive years left but didn’t envision himself continuing to coach a team directly. In view of this, Red Bull presented an exciting opportunity he couldn’t pass up.
Klopp’s new position at Red Bull won’t involve regular operational duties but will see him advising Red Bull-owned teams in Germany, the US, Brazil and Austria. Klopp expressed his fondness for his previous clubs and his reluctance to offend anyone with his decision, but defended his move by saying he saw no alternative which would have pleased everyone.