A first Liverpool player has commented on Jurgen Klopp’s controversial decision to sign a contract with Red Bull.
In January Klopp announced he would be ending his nine-year tenure with the Reds after running out of energy.
One of the club’s most successful managers, he was given an emotional farewell at Anfield in May following a win over Wolves.
The former Borussia Dortmund and Mainz coach has been enjoying a break from football management but on Wednesday morning Klopp’s next role in football was confirmed.
He will take up a position as Red Bull’s ‘Global Head of Soccer’ – overseeing the company’s esteemed international network of clubs like RB Leipzig, New York Red Bulls and Red Bull Salzburg.
Although not a day-to-day role for Klopp, he will advise on key issues such as coaching, player development and recruitment.
Klopp was convinced to make the move by Oliver Mintzlaff, CEO of Corporate Projects and Investments at Red Bull, and there are reports it was in place prior to his Liverpool exit.
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Image: Getty
The decision has courted controversy however, with some fans and sections of the media accusing Klopp of “selling out” and destroying his legacy.
His former player Diogo Jota was asked about Klopp’s next step while on international duty with Portugal.
As expected, the former Wolves man was supportive of Klopp and the new chapter he is embarking on.
Speaking to Record, Jota said: “Klopp? He’s a person I have a lot of affection for, we have to respect his decision. I wish him the best of luck in this new stage.”
Klopp will start his long-term contract on January 2025 and has expressed his excitement about the role.
“A few months ago I said I don’t see myself on the sideline anymore and it is still the case,” he said in a video on Instagram.
“But I still love football and working and Red Bull gives me the perfect platform for that.
“I want to share my experience which I collected over the years and we all know there are more successful managers out there.
“In my career I fought for promotion, fought against relegation and fought for titles and trophies.
“Sometimes we failed and sometimes we succeeded and dealing with that is not easy.
“I want to learn again because when you’re in the job and you have to play every three days, you barely have time for that.”
Image: Getty
Klopp has headed back on holiday and is set to be officially unveiled in his new role in a January press conference.
The role is believed to be include an exit clause for the Germany job.
Meanwhile, Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has confirmed a partnership with Red Bull.
His third major brand deal since joining Liverpool was announced on Instagram.