Klopp Joins Red Bull, Shocking Fans
Jurgen Klopp’s decision to join Red Bull as head of football operations has upset Borussia Dortmund fans. Red Bull, which owns RB Leipzig, a major Bundesliga rival, announced Klopp’s new role starting in January. Fans see this move as a betrayal, given Klopp’s success at Dortmund, where he led the team to two Bundesliga titles, a German Cup, and the 2013 Champions League final.
Fan Outrage Erupts
Dortmund fans reacted with anger. The fan magazine Schwatzgelb criticized Klopp, accusing him of ruining his legacy. They stated that he had “torn down” everything he built with Dortmund. The magazine also took aim at Klopp’s nickname, “the normal one,” suggesting he’s now just like everyone else in the commercial world of football.
Fans felt Klopp’s decision to work with Red Bull, a company known for commercializing the sport, destroyed his previous stance against big business in football. Many now believe he has abandoned his principles.
Klopp’s Legacy in Danger
Before this, Klopp enjoyed a near-perfect legacy in Dortmund. Even after leaving for Liverpool in 2015, he remained a beloved figure. At Liverpool, he led the team to major successes, including the Premier League and Champions League titles. Despite his departure, Dortmund fans held him in high regard.
In September, over 81,000 fans celebrated Klopp at a testimonial match in Dortmund. He was known not only for his coaching but also for his willingness to speak out on important social issues, including football’s commercialization and the European Super League. This latest decision, however, puts his once-untouchable reputation at risk.
Red Bull’s Controversial Role in Football
Dortmund fans’ anger towards Red Bull is deeply rooted. Many see Red Bull’s football operations, especially at RB Leipzig, as a threat to German football traditions. RB Leipzig, founded in 2009, has often been criticized for bypassing Germany’s 50+1 rule, which ensures that club members, not investors, control the teams.
Red Bull’s multi-club ownership model, which includes teams in Salzburg and New York, adds to the frustration. Fans view Red Bull’s approach as driven by profit rather than passion for football, making Klopp’s decision to join them all the more painful.
Mixed Reactions in the Football World
Despite fan outrage, some football figures were less surprised by Klopp’s move. Dortmund’s managing director, Hans-Joachim Watzke, wished Klopp “good luck,” saying they had discussed the decision privately. This indicates that Klopp’s shift wasn’t unexpected in some circles.
Klopp has previously defended Red Bull’s football model. While he considers himself a traditionalist, he has praised Leipzig’s development of young players and its unique football approach. He argued that Leipzig, though criticized, hasn’t taken anything away from traditional clubs like Dortmund or Bayern Munich.
Former Manchester United coach Ralf Rangnick, who held Klopp’s new position, also expressed interest in how Klopp will handle his role. Rangnick believes Klopp’s influence will bring excitement to Red Bull’s football operations.
Conclusion
Jurgen Klopp’s move to Red Bull has shocked and angered many Dortmund fans. Once seen as a footballing hero, his decision has tarnished his legacy, at least in the eyes of those who feel Red Bull represents everything wrong with modern football. While Klopp’s contributions to Dortmund and Liverpool are undeniable, his association with Red Bull has raised questions about his commitment to the values he once stood for.
Only time will tell how Klopp’s new role will impact his long-term legacy. For now, many fans in Dortmund feel let down by their former hero. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
