Real Madrid link grows again as Jürgen Klopp doubts emerge
Reports in Austria claim the German executive could step away from his Red Bull role, with elite clubs monitoring developments closely.
In Austria, confidence is growing that Jürgen Klopp’s future at Red Bull could take an unexpected turn this summer, barely a year after he stepped into the role of global head of soccer for the energy drink conglomerate.
According to Salzburger Nachrichten, the 58-year-old was brought in to elevate the sporting performance of the group’s clubs and push for major trophies, but internal progress has reportedly fallen short of expectations, raising the possibility of an early separation.
Red Bull succession plan and Oliver Glasner’s candidacy
The same outlet reports that Red Bull would not block Klopp should he wish to return to coaching this summer. In fact, the company is said to have already identified a potential replacement: Oliver Glasner, currently in charge at Crystal Palace and expected to leave the London club no later than the end of the season.
The Austrian coach previously worked within the Red Bull network and would reportedly welcome the opportunity to assume the strategic position Klopp now occupies.
🔔 Jürgen Klopp is living his best life.
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Footballtweet) February 17, 2026
His latest side hustle; ringing the bell for the final lap of the men's biathlon relay at the Winter Olympics. pic.twitter.com/6nraDmjFSG
Contract through 2029 but coaching rumors intensify
Red Bull have denied any imminent break and stress that Klopp’s contract runs through 2029. Still, voices in Germany and Spain continue to point toward a possible return to the bench for the former Mainz, Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool manager.
His name has been repeatedly linked with Real Madrid, where senior figures are said to view him as an attractive long-term option. Should he depart Red Bull, that speculation would only intensify, placing him once again at the center of attention at the Santiago Bernabéu.
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