Jürgen Klopp has defended his decision to join Red Bull as global head of soccer, following criticism from fans of his former German clubs.
The ex-Liverpool manager will take on the role from January, in what has been seen as a surprise move.
“I didn’t want to step on anybody’s toes, definitely not, and personally I love all of my ex-clubs,” Klopp said in an interview released Wednesday on a podcast hosted by former Real Madrid and Germany midfielder Toni Kroos.
The 57-year-old suggested that any decision he made would have disappointed some fans.
Red Bull, particularly its RB Leipzig team, faces widespread resentment from German football fans.
Many view the drinks company as an unwelcome corporate presence attempting to buy success.
Jurgen Klopp has defended his position at Red Bull
PA
Fans of Klopp’s former clubs, including Borussia Dortmund and Mainz, have expressed their disappointment.
Mainz supporters even displayed banners questioning whether Klopp was “crazy” for taking the role.
The backlash stems from Klopp’s deep connections to these clubs. He spent 18 years at Mainz as both player and coach before leading Dortmund to two Bundesliga titles and a Champions League final.
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Klopp addressed the criticism, stating, “I really don’t know what exactly I could have done for everyone to be happy.”
He emphasised that he had never viewed Red Bull’s involvement in football “so critically” and suggested it played a vital role in bringing high-level club football back to the former East Germany with the Leipzig project.
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The former Liverpool boss acknowledged his previous plans for a “long break” from football.
However, he explained, “It was always clear that I wasn’t going to do nothing at all. And then this story with Red Bull came into the picture, and for me it’s outstanding.”
Klopp described his new Red Bull role primarily as an “adviser” working alongside coaches at the company’s clubs.
Jurgen Klopp left Liverpool at the end of last season
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He noted, “I always had the feeling that the coach is very, very often the loneliest person at the club.”
The position will involve overseeing Red Bull-owned clubs in Germany, the United States, Brazil, and Austria.
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Jurgen Klopp insisted he was not involved in the day-to-day operations at Red Bull
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However, Klopp clarified that he won’t be involved in day-to-day operations.
Despite the controversy, Klopp remains positive about the opportunity. “You cannot make your decision depending on what reactions there will be,” he said, adding, “For me it is outstanding.”