Jurgen Klopp Faces Backlash Over Red Bull Appointment

Jurgen Klopp’s reputation in Germany is facing challenges following his recent appointment as head of global soccer at Red Bull. This move, effective January allows the Austrian energy company to leverage Klopp’s esteemed status in German and European football. However, it has sparked criticism, particularly from fans of his former club Borussia Dortmund due to Red Bull’s controversial history in German football.

The company’s controversial takeover of SSV Markranstadt in 2009 which led to the creation of RB Leipzig, raised concerns about the exploitation of the German Football Association’s ’50+1′ rule. This rule mandates that club members (primarily fans) own the majority of shares, thus influencing key decisions. Critics argue that Leipzig has circumvented the ’50+1′ rule by having only 17 voting members closely connected to Red Bull.

They contend that this approach has turned Leipzig into a “marketing vehicle” rather than a traditional football club. Since the news broke, Dortmund supporters have expressed their disappointment on social media, calling Klopp a “hypocrite” and accusing him of “selling out.” Some mocked his earlier statement about leaving Liverpool due to exhaustion, suggesting he would regain his energy with Red Bull.

Despite the backlash, Hans-Joachim Watzke, Dortmund’s long-time chief executive expressed well-wishes for Klopp, acknowledging their past working relationship. Former Bayern Munich player Lothar Matthaus suggested that Klopp’s ambition aligns with Red Bull’s vision while many hope he will eventually return to coaching, possibly as the national team manager after the 2026 World Cup.

Jurgen Klopp retains the option to leave Red Bull if the Germany coach position becomes available. As he embarks on this new chapter nearly nine years after joining Liverpool, his large personality and history in football will likely remain influential in German football, regardless of current criticism.