Red Bull's top executive has issued a firm response to mounting speculation that Liverpool could attempt to bring legendary former manager Jurgen Klopp back to Anfield.
Mintzlaff's Firm Stance on Klopp's Future
Chief executive Oliver Mintzlaff has publicly addressed the rumours, stating the organisation would have to 'deal with' any potential approach from the Merseyside club. However, he was quick to emphasise Klopp's current happiness and commitment to his position as Red Bull's head of global soccer.
In an interview with German publication Welt on December 31, 2025, Mintzlaff sought to quell the talk. "Jurgen Klopp feels completely at home with us and has already learned a tremendous amount here," he stated. "There's no release clause in his contract, and he's clearly committed to us."
Context of the Speculation
The rumours have gained traction due to Liverpool's difficult 2025/26 campaign under Klopp's successor, Arne Slot. While Slot enjoyed a dream debut season by winning the Premier League title, the current season has been a stark contrast, with the team struggling for form.
This dip has led to suggestions that the club's hierarchy might consider a change, with a sensational return for the man who delivered multiple trophies, including the Champions League and Premier League, before his 2024 departure, seen as a potential option.
Mintzlaff, however, poured cold water on the idea of Klopp seeking a move. "He has no intention of looking for anything else. If something were to come along, we'd have to deal with it. But there are absolutely no indications of that." He even joked that if the German Football Association (DFB) came calling, he would question their loyalty to current national coach Julian Nagelsmann.
Klopp's Impact and Previous Comments
The Red Bull CEO was full of praise for the work Klopp has done since his appointment, highlighting his role in the resurgence of RB Leipzig and his influence across the global network of clubs. "He was our marquee signing, coming on a free transfer," Mintzlaff noted, explaining how Klopp's credibility is a 'game-changer' in transfer negotiations.
Klopp himself previously addressed the possibility of a Liverpool return on The Diary of a CEO podcast. While ruling out managing any other English club, he left the door slightly ajar for Anfield. "I said I will never coach another team, a different team, in England," he explained. "So that means if then it's Liverpool...yeah. Theoretically, it's possible."
For now, the official line from his employers is clear: Jurgen Klopp is a central and valued part of the Red Bull project, with no desire to leave. Any attempt by Liverpool to test that resolve would be met with strong resistance, leaving Arne Slot to focus on turning his team's fortunes around on the pitch.
