Jürgen Klopp Returns to Soccer as Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer Operations

Former Liverpool coach Jürgen Klopp is set to return to soccer much sooner than expected, taking on a new challenge with energy drinks manufacturer Red Bull.

Announced on Wednesday, the German tactician will step into the role of Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull, starting in January.

This move comes after Klopp initially stated he'd take a "long break" from the sport following his departure from Liverpool in May.

In his new position, Klopp will oversee Red Bull's extensive network of international soccer clubs, including top-tier teams like RB Leipzig in Germany, FC Red Bull Salzburg in Austria, New York Red Bulls in the United States, and Red Bull Bragantino in Brazil.

He will also support the development of Omiya Ardija in Japan and guide the company's minority stake in English club Leeds United.

However, Red Bull confirmed that Klopp's role will focus on a broader strategic vision rather than day-to-day operations.

"He will not be involved in the clubs' day-to-day operations but will provide strategic vision, supporting individual sporting directors in advancing the Red Bull philosophy," the company said in a statement.

Klopp, who is known for his energetic presence and tactical expertise, expressed enthusiasm for his new role.

"After almost 25 years on the sideline, I could not be more excited to get involved in a project like this," Klopp said. "The role may have changed but my passion for football and the people who make the game what it is has not."

Interestingly, German broadcaster Sky Sports reported that Klopp's contract includes a clause allowing him to leave for the Germany national team coaching job, should the opportunity arise.

Currently, the position is held by Julian Nagelsmann, who is contracted through the 2026 World Cup.

Klopp's return comes after an illustrious managerial career, where he led Liverpool to a Champions League title in 2019 and the Premier League title in 2020, ending the club's 30-year wait for a domestic championship.

Before that, he brought success to Borussia Dortmund with two consecutive Bundesliga titles and a domestic double in 2012.

His coaching career began at Mainz 05, where he managed from 2001 to 2008, establishing himself as one of the brightest minds in German football.

In his new role with Red Bull, Klopp will mentor coaches, shape the sporting strategy, and strengthen the organization's global scouting network.

His involvement will span across clubs in Europe, South America, Asia, and North America, making it a unique opportunity to influence football on a global scale.

"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 organization that is unique, innovative, and forward-looking. As I said, this could not excite me more," he added.

The German manager took to Instagram to elaborate further, suggesting that the new role will also serve as a learning experience for him. "I want to learn again," Klopp shared in his post.

"Because when you are in the job and you have to play every three days, you barely have time for that. And now I have time and I have the opportunity, and I want to see and feel and figure out what is useful for football. So, developing football a little bit as well. As I said, really looking forward to it, but now I go back on holiday."

Klopp's switch to a less hands-on role comes as a surprise for many who saw his Liverpool departure as a sign that he would be stepping away from the sport for a longer period.

But it's clear that the lure of a strategic role and the chance to shape the future of Red Bull's global soccer projects were compelling enough to bring him back sooner.