Red Bull Energy Drinks announced the appointment of Jurgen Klopp, former coach of the English team Liverpool, to the position of President of Global Football in the company.
“I want to develop, improve and support the amazing football talent we have,” Klopp said.
The duration of the contract was not revealed, but according to media reports, there is a clause in Klopp’s contract that allows him to leave to train the German national team.
Klopp (57 years old) left Liverpool at the end of last season after leading it for 9 years, with whom he won the Champions League and the English Premier League title. Klopp previously coached Mainz and Borussia Dortmund.
Klopp is scheduled to begin his duties at the beginning of next January, as this will be the first position he holds since stepping down as Liverpool coach.
In his new position, Klopp will oversee the Red Bull international football club network, which includes RB Leipzig, New York Red Bull, Red Bull Salzburg, and other clubs.
“He will not be involved in the day-to-day operations of the clubs, but will provide strategic vision and support to individual sporting directors in developing the Red Bull philosophy,” the company stated.
In addition, Klopp will support Red Bull’s operations to discover global talent, and contribute to the training and development of coaches.
Klopp said, “After almost 25 years as technical director, I could not be more excited to participate in a project like this. My role may have changed, but my passion for football and for those who make the game what it is has not changed.”
He added, “I see my role primarily as a mentor to the coaches and management of the Red Bull clubs.”
Oliver Mintzlaff, Red Bull’s Chief Project Officer and Corporate Investments, described the news as the biggest appointment in the history of Red Bull’s involvement in football.
He said, “We are very proud of this distinguished contract, and it is certainly the strongest contract in the history of Red Bull football. Klopp is one of the greats and among the most influential in the world of football with his exceptional skills and charisma.”
