Red Bull
Klopp reveals he could see Virgil van Dijk in MLS
The former Liverpool manager was unveiled as Red Bull's new global head of football and ruled out taking a seat in the team's top job.
Jürgen Klopp was introduced as Red Bull’s new Head of Global Soccer on Tuesday. The former Liverpool manager, who stepped down from his role at Anfield this past summer, spoke to the media in Salzburg, the headquarters of the energy drinks giant.
During the press conference, Klopp outlined his vision for overseeing Red Bull’s football operations while clarifying that he will not be managing any of the group’s teams. He addressed several other topics, including which Liverpool player he wants to see in MLS.
Explaining why he stepped down as a manager:
“I wasn’t really happy as a coach anymore. Every week felt repetitive—one game after another. I’m a naturally curious person, and I wanted to explore something new. Instead of focusing on improving specific aspects of a single team, I now want to enhance football on a global scale. It’s no longer about preparing for the next match; it’s about working on the bigger picture.”
Red Bull’s Vision:
“This brand goes far beyond football in the sports world. If there’s a plane performing extraordinary feats, chances are it’s from Red Bull. We, as sports fans, love that. I’m here now, and I’m thrilled to work with such a fantastic team. Everyone in this company, across all departments, is deeply passionate about what they do. The work here is driven by effort and enthusiasm.”
His objectives at Red Bull:
“My goal is to share my experience and see where it leads. Each club around the world operates under unique circumstances, so my role will be advisory. I won’t be dictating what others should do—anyone here can approach me at any time. This isn’t just a publicity move. If I had to define what I truly wanted to do, I’d say: I want to help people and give them wings. That aligns perfectly with Red Bull’s ethos.”
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His high-pressure jobs at Liverpool and Dortmund:
“In the public eye, I was often seen as the passionate motivator on the sidelines. But my role at Liverpool was far more strategic. As head coach, I was also heavily involved in transfers and broader decision-making. Similarly, at Dortmund, we made many collective decisions as a team. Now, my focus is on a global scale, spanning multiple clubs.”
On the amount of money in football:
“Of course, money plays a crucial role in football. But there’s still plenty of room to make smart decisions and develop innovative models. Sponsors provide flexibility, but what truly matters is how you utilize those resources.”
Coaching a Red Bull club in the future:
“No, I can absolutely rule that out. The agreement is clear—coaching one of Red Bull’s teams is not on the table. While none of us know where we’ll be in two, three, or five years, I hope we establish a structure that makes such questions irrelevant.”
Addressing criticism of the move to Red Bull:
“It’s important to understand the dynamics of newer clubs. I bring my experience from historic clubs I’ve worked with. The key is ensuring that everyone involved—fans, players, employees—feels part of a meaningful journey. While tradition matters, passion and excitement are not exclusive to long-established clubs.”
Liverpool players he would sign:
“Maybe Virgil. I could see Virgil van Dijk playing for New York Red Bulls in a few years. And Trent [Alexander-Arnold], of course. But I’m afraid we can’t afford him! If he could also work on defending a bit... (laughs). I truly value him as a footballer and enjoyed working with him.”
On coaching the German National Team:
“That’s not something I’m considering. Everything I take on, I approach with complete conviction, just like this new role. Besides, we already have the best coach for the German national team. He’s been the most influential figure in recent years, transforming the team after a rough patch. I hope he continues for another decade and brings home more titles.”
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