Jurgen Klopp defends move to Red Bull after Liverpool

Hans-Joachim Watzke, the former CEO of Borussia Dortmund, has spoken out in defense of Jurgen Klopp's recent move to Red Bull after leaving Liverpool. Watzke worked closely with Klopp during their time at Dortmund. Fans of Dortmund have expressed disappointment over Klopp's decision, feeling it contradicts their values, particularly regarding commercial influences in football. Red Bull owns clubs in several countries, including Germany, Austria, the United States, and Brazil. Klopp left Liverpool in 2024 to become the Global Head of Soccer at Red Bull. Many Dortmund supporters have criticized him, accusing him of compromising his principles. Some even called him a “hypocrite” on social media. Watzke disagrees with this viewpoint. He acknowledged the disappointment but emphasized that Klopp has the right to make his own choices. He described Klopp as an excellent football expert and a great motivator who deserves respect. Since starting his new role in January, Klopp has taken on a more strategic position with Red Bull, supporting the organization’s vision. His contract includes a clause allowing him to return to managing the German national team if needed. Klopp has expressed confidence in the current German coach, Julian Nagelsmann, stating that he hopes Nagelsmann will remain in his position well beyond the next World Cup in 2026. Although Klopp considers his next steps, he has ruled out returning to coaching in the immediate future.