Soccer

Jurgen Klopp ‘wants to learn again’ in role as Red Bull’s global head of soccer

The former Liverpool boss reiterated his stance that he does not envisage returning to the dugout.

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp will become Red Bull’s global head of soccer next year
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp will become Red Bull’s global head of soccer next year (Zac Goodwin/PA)
By Carl Markham, PA

Jurgen Klopp hopes to be able to “figure out what is useful for football” in his new role as Red Bull’s global head of soccer.

The former Liverpool manager said he wanted to start learning about the game again when he officially starts on January 1.

Klopp also reiterated his stance that he does not see himself returning to the dugout, although reports suggest there is a clause in his contract which would allow him to leave to become Germany manager.

“A few months ago I said I don’t see myself on the sidelines any more and that’s still the case, but I still love football and still love working and Red Bull gives me the perfect platform for that,” Klopp, who left Anfield in the summer after almost nine years, said in a video on Instagram.

“I want to share my experience which I collected over the years and we all know there are much more successful managers out there.

“In my career I’ve fought for promotion, I’ve fought against relegation, I’ve fought for titles and I’ve fought for trophies.

“Sometimes we failed, sometimes we succeeded and dealing with that is not easy, but it is possible.

“Then I want to learn again because when you are in the job and have to play every three days you barely have time for that.

“Now I have time and I have the opportunity and I want to see, feel and figure out what is useful for football. So developing football a little bit as well.”

Red Bull owns German side RB Leipzig, Austrian outfit Red Bull Salzburg, Major League Soccer side New York Red Bulls and Brazilian clubs Red Bull Bragantino and Red Bull Brasil.

It is also the shirt sponsor of Leeds after buying a minority stake in the Championship club earlier this year.

“In his strategic role, Jurgen Klopp will not be involved in the clubs’ day-to-day operations but will focus on supporting the sports directors in advancing the Red Bull philosophy,” said a Red Bull statement.

“He will also leverage his extensive network to aid in scouting top talent and contribute to the training and development of coaches.”

In a statement following the announcement Klopp, who won the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, Club World Cup, Super Cup and two League Cups while at Liverpool, said: “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.

“I could not be more excited to get involved in a project like this.”