Bayern Munich Came “Very Close” to Hiring Jürgen Klopp

Bayern Munich nearly secured Jürgen Klopp as manager on two occasions, in 2008/2009 and 2019, according to reports from Transfermarkt as cited by Tz and Bavarian Football Works. Despite his strong ties to German football through Mainz and Borussia Dortmund, Klopp ultimately pursued paths elsewhere, forging his legendary status at Dortmund and later Liverpool.[3]

The 2008/2009 Pursuit

In May 2008, as Klopp eyed his next move after Mainz, Bayern showed keen interest alongside Dortmund. Transfermarkt data reveals negotiations advanced to a "very close" stage, but Klopp chose Dortmund, rejecting Bayern's overtures. There, he built a dynasty, winning back-to-back Bundesligas in 2011 and 2012—the last time anyone halted Bayern's dominance. Klopp's Dortmund also challenged Bayern in Champions League finals, losing narrowly in 2013.[2][3]

The 2019 Opportunity

By 2019, with Klopp thriving at Liverpool, Bayern eyed him amid managerial transitions post-Jupp Heynckes. Reports indicate another near-miss, with "very close" talks per Transfermarkt. However, Klopp denied any formal contact in a Sky Germany interview, noting his long Liverpool contract (four years remaining) and lack of release clauses made a move "complicated." Bayern instead appointed Niko Kovač, and Klopp dismissed return rumors to Germany, citing fulfilling experiences at Mainz and Dortmund.[1][3]

Klopp's Reflections and Legacy

Klopp addressed related topics, defending ex-protégé Mario Götze's Bayern move in 2013, which he found poorly timed before a Champions League semi-final. He praised Götze's renewed fitness. Post-Liverpool (departure 2024), Klopp joined Red Bull as Head of Global Football in 2025, drawing criticism for embracing a multi-club model he once critiqued.[1][2]

These close calls highlight Bayern's admiration for Klopp's tactical genius, yet fate steered him to rivals who benefited immensely. What-ifs persist in Bundesliga lore.[1][2][3]