This month, Red Bull revealed that former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp will take on the role of Head of Global Soccer. However, Leeds manager Daniel Farke clarified the extent of Klopp’s involvement with the Whites.
Klopp will oversee Red Bull’s global network of soccer clubs, focusing on long-term strategy rather than daily operations. His role will involve advising sporting directors to ensure alignment with Red Bull’s philosophy.
The 57-year-old will also significantly contribute to Red Bull’s global scouting efforts and help develop and train coaches across the network.
Although Red Bull doesn’t own the majority of Leeds, it holds a minority share and is the club’s primary kit sponsor. In his new position within Leeds’ ownership, Klopp is likely to have an influence on decisions, especially with the 10 percent stakeholders.
Daniel Farke responds to Jürgen Klopp potentially influencing Leeds
While no club would deny having Klopp advising on significant decisions, Farke noted that the German manager will have little impact on what transpires at Leeds.
“Not directly, because he was announced by Red Bull,” Farke said (h/t MOT Leeds News). “There are obviously a few Red Bull teams like in Leipzig, Salzburg, New York and so on. We are Leeds United and for that it is clear, he has a big impact on the Red Bull clubs and for us not that much.
“We are Leeds United and I think no one of our supporters would allow us to try and copy something or follow a similar philosophy. We are a pretty unique club and also have our own values, principles philosophy, our own way that we want to play.
“As far as I know, this is exactly what the 49ers are standing for. They know how special this club is and they don’t want to copy someone else and for that, we will always be Leeds United.”
The energy drink brand owns RB Leipzig, Red Bull Salzburg, New York Red Bulls, and Red Bull Bragantino, all of which will have a connection to Klopp in some way. However, it seems that won’t be the case at Leeds, even though the company has a stake in the club and might offer Klopp some input on certain matters.
