Every event at Hangar 7 (Salzburg, Austria) carries a special significance, not only because of the occasion itself but also due to the unique ambiance of this impressive space. It is a “go-to location” every time Red Bull has an announcement that sends shockwaves through the sports world. That’s why every photoshoot in this amazing venue is a spectacle in itself. The same electrifying atmosphere filled the air this January, when Jürgen Klopp, one of the most celebrated football managers, was officially introduced as Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer. The announcement marked the beginning of a new era for both him and Global Soccer, and I was there to capture the atmosphere of the event.
Jürgen Norbert Klopp has carved a legendary career as one of football’s most celebrated managers. From leading Mainz 05 to Bundesliga promotion to securing Borussia Dortmund’s first domestic double and achieving historic victories with Liverpool – including a UEFA Champions League title and a Premier League triumph – Klopp has consistently defined excellence in football management. Since 1 January 2025, Klopp has taken on a new challenge as Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull GmbH. His position will oversee the company’s international network of soccer clubs. In this strategic role, Jürgen Klopp will not be involved in the clubs’ day-to-day operations but will focus on supporting the sports directors in advancing the Red Bull philosophy. He will also leverage his extensive network to aid in scouting top talent and contribute to the training and development of coaches.
Klopp said he was excited to be working in a multi-club, multi-sports set-up for the first time, and with a pledge to deliver: fire on the pitch, entertainment for the fans and a long-term vision for the clubs under his leadership. “I want people to see us playing and without reading the name on the shirt, they should feel it – they should know (we’re Red Bull)” Klopp said at the Hangar-7 exhibition space in Salzburg, where he made his first media appearance since assuming the role at the start of January.
He added: “What I want to do is develop football – develop football for our clubs, for our players, for our talents, but for football itself as well. Somebody has to take care of that. So yes, helping football, and in the same moment, being successful with Red Bull in the long term is super appealing to me.” His new role is his first since bidding an emotional farewell to Liverpool in May 2024, and will call on his experience to provide strategic vision to Red Bull Soccer.
“I’ve been a leader for the last three decades, but I want to listen, I want to feel, I want to learn, I want to understand what the people did so far because I can tell you they all did a brilliant job so far. It’s not that we’re starting from scratch.
But to bring it all together, I think that’s a real challenge, to be honest, and that’s what we try to do.” Describing himself as a “sports person first and foremost”, Klopp also said he was eager to learn from Red Bull’s involvement with multiple sports and athletes and looked forward to making a long-term impact across the clubs and on the global game as a whole.