Jurgen Klopp hits back at criticisms over Red Bull appointment

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has addressed the significant criticism he faced after being appointed as Red Bull’s global head of soccer in October, Soccernet.football reports.

The German coach reportedly signed a five-year contract with the energy drinks company earlier this month. An appointment which marks his first role since departing Liverpool in June.

Beginning in January, Klopp will be involved in the strategic management of Red Bull’s global network of clubs. He will oversee the likes RB Leipzig, New York Red Bulls, Red Bull Bragantino, and Red Bull Salzburg.

The 57-year-old will provide guidance on playing philosophy, transfer strategy, and coaching development. However, his former clubs, Borussia Dortmund and Mainz, have been among those questioning his decision.

Many felt his move to Red Bull contradicted his earlier statement about “running out of energy” when announcing his departure from Anfield earlier this year.

Discussing the topic on the Einfach mal Luppen podcast, hosted by former Real Madrid and Germany midfielder Toni Kroos and his brother Felix, Klopp shared his perspective.

“I really don’t know what exactly I could have done for everyone to be happy,” he said. “I didn’t want to step on anybody’s toes, definitely not, and, personally, I love all of my ex-clubs.

“I’m 57, so I can still work for a couple more years, but I don’t really see myself on the sideline [as a coach] for the time being.

“But 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.”

Explaining his new role, he added: “Basically, I’m an advisor. Hopefully, I can bring calm in different ways and, in other situations, assess things correctly and help the coaches.

“But I just want to support, not interfere, because I know how disruptive that is. Instead, I want to pass on my experience and work in the world that I know best.”