Red Bull's top executive has issued a firm response to mounting speculation that Liverpool could attempt to bring legendary manager Jurgen Klopp back to Anfield. The German's former club are struggling in their Premier League title defence under his successor, Arne Slot, sparking rumours of a potential dramatic reunion.
Mintzlaff's Firm Stance on Klopp's Future
In an interview with German publication Welt, Red Bull chief executive Oliver Mintzlaff directly addressed the links between Klopp and a return to Merseyside. He emphasised that there is no release clause in Klopp's contract and that the former Liverpool boss is fully focused on his role as Red Bull's head of global soccer.
"Jurgen Klopp feels completely at home with us and has already learned a tremendous amount here," Mintzlaff stated. "He's clearly committed to us. He has no intention of looking for anything else."
However, the CEO did acknowledge that the company would have to confront any official approach. "If something were to come along, we'd have to deal with it. But there are absolutely no indications of that," he added, downplaying the current likelihood of a move.
Klopp's Current Role and Liverpool's Struggles
Klopp left Liverpool in 2024 after a trophy-laden reign, famously including a Premier League title and the Champions League. His replacement, Arne Slot, initially succeeded by winning the league in his debut 2024/25 campaign. This season, however, has been a different story, with the Reds' form dipping significantly and prompting questions about Slot's future.
Mintzlaff was full of praise for the impact Klopp has had in his corporate role, which involves overseeing Red Bull's football projects in Leipzig, New York, and Brazil. "He was our marquee signing, coming on a free transfer," Mintzlaff quipped. "When he talks to young players we'd like to sign, it's a game-changer."
He also dismissed initial concerns that Klopp would overshadow local club operations. "The truth is: everyone benefits from his input, but ultimately makes their own decisions... He instills this style of play with clear consistency and conviction."
The Door Left Slightly Ajar
While Mintzlaff's comments suggest a return is currently off the table, Klopp himself has previously made a intriguing admission. On The Diary of a CEO podcast, the German manager ruled out managing any other English club besides Liverpool.
"I said I will never coach another team, a different team, in England," Klopp explained. "So that means if then it's Liverpool...yeah. Theoretically, it's possible."
This statement, combined with Liverpool's on-pitch troubles, is what continues to fuel the rumours. For now, the ball is firmly in Red Bull's court, and their CEO has made it clear they see Klopp as a vital long-term asset, not a short-term loan.
The situation presents a delicate standoff. Liverpool's hierarchy must decide whether to stick with Slot through a difficult period or test Red Bull's resolve with a concrete offer for their iconic former manager. Any such move would undoubtedly be one of the most sensational stories in modern football.
