Jurgen Klopp branded 'a sell-out' after taking new Red Bull job
Jurgen Klopp will become Red Bull's Head of Soccer in January 2025 in his first job following his Liverpool departure - but it has sparked some anger from Borussia Dortmund fans
The announcement of Jurgen Klopp's new role in football has been met with criticism in Germany.
The news was confirming on Wednesday morning, but the former Liverpool boss has frustrated a contingent of Borussia Dortmund fans. They believe that Klopp's appointment as Red Bull's Head of Soccer exposes his hypocrisy, having previously established himself as a legend at the Westfalenstadion.
Red Bull, who own RB Leipzig in Germany, have been heavily criticised in Germany. The drinks manufacturer bought out SSV Markranstadt in 2009 and bypassed the Bundesliga's 50+1 rule in acquiring the club.
Germany requires fans to have a majority of the ownership, though owners invested for more than 20 years can appeal to get the majority. Leipzig had just 17 paying members, who were also Red Bull employees, in comparison to Dortmund's 189,000 members.
Klopp has previously critiqued clubs targeting a multi-club model and in 2017 said: " I'm a football romantic and I like tradition in football and all that stuff. In Germany, only two clubs sing 'You'll Never Walk Alone' before the game and that is Mainz and Dortmund."
As a result, a number of Borussia Dortmund fans have taken offence to Klopp's move. Some have seen it as a way of finally moving on from their legendary manager.
One fan said on X: "I have something positive from the #Klopp message for you: In Dortmund, it is now finally possible to emotionally close the Jurgen Klopp era. No more nostalgic moaning that is hindering the current sporting process."
"There is one positive aspect to the whole thing," another agreed. "The topic #Klopp is now history at #BVB at the latest. No more coach comparisons a la “next Klopp”, no more whining afterwards."
"You're nobody in my book anymore," another added. "How to lose your status as a likeable football legend in one fell swoop best example."
A further X user said: "A decision that I cannot understand on several levels and that will certainly damage his impeccable CV a little. You don't need that, Kloppo!"
"So you do everything in your career, but really everything right, only to sell your soul at the finish line?" said one disappointed fan. That sentiment was present in a number of responses to the news.
"Simply speechless… he was such a great person and with that he sells his whole aura," said a supporter. Another added: In doing so, he has sold his status and his dignity."
"How can you destroy yourself like that?" pondered a fan.
There was also frustration at RB Leipzig being a rival of Dortmund. "That's also a kick in the a*** for BVB," said a fan. "Because if you look honestly at the current situation, Leipzig is a direct competitor and they are now helping to get rid of Dortmund. You can't drink it all away."
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Related
Share this page
Guest Posts by Easy Branches
