What Red Bull hopes for from the new head of football

When is he coming? Where is he coming from? And what does he actually do? There’s a lot of guesswork going on in journalist circles these days Jurgen Kloppthe whole football world is excited. The former Liverpool coach has been official since January 1st „Head of Global Soccer“ bei Red Bullbut the 57-year-old German has not yet appeared. What will soon change: Klopp will be officially presented on January 14th.

The beverage company has kept this date a secret for a long time, but now it is certain: the presentation will take place in grand Red Bull style in Hangar 7 at Salzburg Airport. Klopp will answer all questions there – in English.

The KURIER tries to answer a few important questions in advance – in German.

Why is the presentation so big?

Because Red Bull can do it and is happy to do it. The group based in Fuschl is known for staging large events. Sometimes with a tendency to exaggerate, at least in the eyes of some observers. Example: Marcel Hirscher’s comeback. On Tuesday, up to 300 journalists from all over the world are expected in Hangar 7. The press conference will therefore be held predominantly in English. What else will happen remains a Red Bull secret. In Liverpool, Klopp once introduced himself as “The Normal One” – this time it won’t be normal.

What are the responsibilities of the Head of Global Soccer?

Klopp should not intervene in the day-to-day business of the Red Bull Club – at least not for the time being. His work is strategic and advisory in nature. Klopp should help develop the Red Bull philosophy. He should also use his network to help find the best talent. He should also be involved in the development of trainers.

Who were Klopp’s predecessors in the position?

From 2006 to 2009, long-time Beckenbauer manager Marcus Höfl was responsible for the international development of Red Bull football. He was followed by former German team player Dietmar Beiersdorfer. But he was soon replaced by Gerard Houllier. From 2014 to 2017, Oliver Mintzlaff was Head of Global Soccer; from 2019 to 2020, current ÖFB team boss Ralf Rangnick held the position.

How much will Klopp have a say in Salzburg?

In Salzburg it is always emphasized that Red Bull is “only” a sponsor. That’s officially true, but it’s obvious that without Red Bull nothing works for the runner-up. Klopp will not interfere in day-to-day business and will not have a say in personnel decisions. Unless expressly requested. Salzburg’s sports director Rouven Schröder explains it like this: “He is an asset to us in an advisory capacity.” But the distribution of tasks is clear: “We are independent. It is a great asset that you can take independent steps.”

Where will Klopp’s new office be?

His closest collaborator will be Mario Gomez. The former German goalscorer is technical director at Red Bull and is based in Munich. According to KURIER information, Klopp will not have his own office. Because he will be traveling a lot anyway and can do the rest in his “home office”. Klopp has a house in Wiesbaden and a finca in Mallorca.

What will Klopp’s first steps be?

Klopp is due to go on a world tour at the end of January – for business purposes. From Sao Paulo, where he visits Red Bull Bragantino, he continues to the USA. His good friend Sandro Schwarz is the coach at Red Bull New York and was most recently runner-up in Major League Soccer. In mid-February he goes to Japan, where he visits the Omiya Ardija club. A trip to France to Paris FC is also on the list. Red Bull only has a minority stake there, but the Arnault family who own it (sales of 86 billion euros with brands such as Louis Vuitton and Dior) are said to have asked for Klopp’s expertise.

Why did Red Bull bring in Klopp?

Klopp is considered one of the greatest football experts of today – and a popular figure. In terms of sport, he should stop the current downward trend (Salzburg, Leipzig) and bring in new momentum. At the same time, he should polish up the canned image, which is still tarnished (especially in fan circles).