Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has embarked on a surprising new venture, securing a prominent position at the 2026 Winter Olympics. This development follows intense speculation linking the German tactician with a return to elite club football, particularly at Manchester United.
Klopp's Olympic Debut and Biathlon Passion
Klopp was captured by BBC cameras fulfilling his duties at the Winter Olympics, where he rang the bell to signal the final lap of the men's biathlon relay. The event saw France clinch gold, Norway take silver, and Sweden secure bronze. Klopp's involvement stems from a deep-seated admiration for winter sports, cultivated during his upbringing in Germany's Black Forest region.
A Lifelong Admirer of Winter Disciplines
In recent interviews, Klopp has openly expressed his enthusiasm for various winter sports. "I love all alpine skiing, I love all cross-country skiing disciplines, I love biathlon. It's all just exciting," he remarked. He acknowledged some aspects remain a mystery, humorously adding, "I have no idea how someone can bend down so low in curling, stay stable, and still push a kettle."
His passion is particularly focused on biathlon, where he idolises legendary Norwegian athlete Ole Einar Bjorndalen, who amassed fourteen Winter Olympics medals. Klopp has even filmed a documentary with Bjorndalen, describing him as "Franz Beckenbauer, Pele and Bobby Moore in one person" in the biathlon world.
Manchester United and Chelsea Approaches Denied
This Olympic role comes against a backdrop of persistent rumours regarding Klopp's potential return to management. According to his former agent, Marc Kosicke, both Manchester United and Chelsea made enquiries about his availability following his departure from Liverpool at the end of the 2023/24 season.
However, both clubs have firmly denied any such approaches. This denial will reassure Liverpool supporters, who were concerned about the prospect of their iconic manager leading another top European side. Klopp currently serves as Red Bull Global Head of Soccer, a position he assumed last year, and appears content with this arrangement despite links to vacancies like Real Madrid.
Klopp's Current Focus and Future Prospects
Klopp's commitment to his Red Bull role and now the Winter Olympics underscores his diversified interests post-management. When asked about ringing the bell at the biathlon, he admitted, "My first question was: What is that? We will be there; it's my first live race." His participation highlights a shift towards personal passions beyond the football pitch.
While the football world continues to speculate about a possible comeback, Klopp's current engagements suggest a deliberate pause from the pressures of club management. His appearance at the Olympics not only showcases his love for winter sports but also marks a unique chapter in his post-Liverpool career, blending sports diplomacy with personal fulfilment.
