Jurgen Klopp makes shock return to soccer with Red Bulls

German manager Jurgen Klopp has agreed a deal to end his brief sabbatical, appointed global head of soccer for Red Bull.

Klopp left Premier League side Liverpool earlier this year, saying that he wanted a break from the high-intensity routine of an elite head coach. His new role is much broader than his previous positions, overseeing the playing philosophy, transfer strategy and coaching practices at several Red Bull-owned clubs.

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

Klopp will officially take up the new role on January 1, 2025. He has signed a long-term contract with Red Bull but has reportedly ensured that his deal contains an exit clause, allowing him to leave to become head coach of the German national team if that role becomes available in the future.

Which teams will Jurgen Klopp work with for Red Bull?

Red Bull’s stable of soccer teams was one of the first multi-club models seen in the game, spanning seven countries in four continents. Klopp will not work with any team specifically, rather he will be brought in to “provide strategic vision” and “oversee Red Bull’s international network of soccer clubs.”

The full list of Red Bull-owned teams is: FC Red Bull Salzburg, New York Red Bulls, Red Bull Bragantino, Red Bull Brasil, RB Leipzig, Red Bull Ghana, and FC Liefering.

RB Leipzig, who play in the top tier of German soccer, are the most successful with regular appearances in the knockout rounds of the Champions League.

In the United States, Red Bull purchased the MetroStars in 2005 and renamed them the New York Red Bulls. They have never clinched MLS Cup but do boast the longest active playoff streak in US sports, making it to the postseason in 15 consecutive seasons.