Red Bull chief gives blunt response to Jurgen Klopp Liverpool return - 'Have to deal with it'

Red Bull Chief Gives Blunt Response to Jürgen Klopp Liverpool Return Rumors

In a candid interview, Red Bull's chief executive Oliver Mintzlaff delivered a straightforward message amid speculation about Jürgen Klopp potentially returning to Liverpool. Addressing the former Anfield boss's new role as head of global soccer for Red Bull—overseeing clubs like RB Leipzig and Red Bull Salzburg—Mintzlaff emphasized pragmatism: "Have to deal with it."[1][3]

Klopp, who left Liverpool at age 57 after a storied tenure, joined Red Bull earlier in 2025 despite anticipating backlash, particularly in Germany where Red Bull's involvement in football is polarizing. "I knew it (would come). I’m German. I know what people in Germany think about the involvement of Red Bull in football. They love Red Bull... But in football? No," Klopp told The Athletic. He dismissed the criticism, noting Liverpool fans are "overly happy" since he's not coaching a rival team, unlike if he had joined Bayern Munich or a club in Italy or Spain.[1]

The 58-year-old has already influenced decisions, such as appointing Ole Werner as RB Leipzig's head coach from Werder Bremen. Klopp insists his move aligns with his "right reasons," having taken a seven-month break post-Liverpool to recharge. "I finished at Liverpool at 57. I was 100 per cent certain... that I will not finish working. I had a break... I enjoyed it—wow!"[1]

Mintzlaff revealed Klopp accepted the role in "20 seconds," underscoring his enthusiasm. Despite protests like banners at Mainz and fan discontent in Germany, Klopp remains unfazed: "I don’t expect everybody to like what I do." He expresses no regrets, content with his lifestyle and contributions to Red Bull's multi-club model.[3]

The response quashes Liverpool return rumors, signaling Klopp's commitment to Red Bull amid ongoing debates over corporate ownership in soccer.

(Word count: 298)