Jamie Carragher has strongly defended Jurgen Klopp’s new role at Red Bull, dismissing criticism as “rubbish”.
The former Liverpool defender spoke out after supporters of Klopp’s former clubs, Borussia Dortmund and Mainz, expressed displeasure at the move.
Carragher, speaking to CBS, said: “I just think it’s rubbish. Jurgen Klopp is a certain type of manager.
“He’s a man of the people. There’s a feeling in Germany, and I understand the model in Germany, this (Red Bull) is completely different.
“But the idea Jurgen has got to stick to the ideals of Mainz and Dortmund supporters for the rest of his life..”
Carragher accused critics of hypocrisy, pointing out inconsistencies in their stance. He said: “If Mainz and Dortmund supporters are that against the Red Bull model then why did Dortmund buy Erling Haaland from them?
Jamie Carragher has hit out at those criticising Jurgen Klopp
PA
“Why did they get Adeyemi? If you’re so against it then don’t buy and sell players to them.”
The Liverpool legend emphasised that Klopp’s role is not as a manager but as an overseer.
He explained: “He’s not the manager of Red Bull, he’s overseeing. He’s speaking to people, going to meetings and getting paid a lot of money.”
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Carragher also highlighted the financial aspect, stating: “We’re all hypocrites, to be honest, we all have views on certain things, but if someone offers us enough money, we’d still do it.”
Carragher drew parallels between Klopp’s football philosophy and the Red Bull model.
He explained: “Jurgen Klopp’s brand of football is basically identical to the Red Bull model.
“Liverpool bought players from there for a long time. Konate, Minamino, Mane, Szoboszlai. His assistant is at RB Salzburg.”
The former England international praised the Red Bull approach, stating: “I know a lot of people in Germany don’t like their model but I actually do.
“They give young players a chance. They get unpolished gems, polish them up and sell them off as diamonds. A lot of clubs are going to copy them.”
Despite Klopp’s previous hints about being done with coaching, Carragher believes the German will return to management soon.
Jurgen Klopp took on a new role this year at Red Bull which drew criticism from some fans
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He said: “Yeah (he’ll go back into management). He’s signed for 18 months. Let’s be totally honest. He’s getting a few quid to basically not do that much.”
Carragher suggests Klopp’s new role is an opportunity for growth.
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Jurgen Klopp left Liverpool at the end of last season
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He explained: “I think he’s gone there and he’s thought he’s getting paid a lot of money, give them expertise but also he’s going to learn stuff as well that he can take into his next role.”
The former defender sees the move as mutually beneficial for Klopp and Red Bull.