Klopp's Agent Reveals Premier League Giants Made Unsuccessful Approaches
Jurgen Klopp's trusted advisor Marc Kosicke has disclosed that both Chelsea and Manchester United made determined but ultimately futile attempts to recruit the celebrated German manager following his emotional departure from Liverpool. The revelation comes as a significant insight into the high-stakes world of elite football management, highlighting Klopp's unwavering loyalty to his former club.
The End of an Era at Anfield
There was widespread astonishment throughout the football community when Klopp announced he would be stepping down as Liverpool manager at the conclusion of the 2023/24 season. After nine transformative years at the helm, Klopp had become synonymous with the club's resurgence, guiding the Merseyside giants through a period of remarkable success.
Under his visionary leadership, Liverpool secured an impressive eight major trophies, including the coveted Champions League title in 2019 and the Premier League championship the following season. This extraordinary period of achievement firmly established Klopp's legacy among Liverpool's pantheon of legendary managers, placing him alongside iconic figures like Bill Shankly and Bob Paisley in the hearts of supporters.
Post-Liverpool Career and Firm Stance
After concluding his tenure with the Reds, the 58-year-old tactician accepted a prestigious position as Head of Global Soccer for the Red Bull group. In this capacity, Klopp oversees the international network of Red Bull clubs, including RB Leipzig and Red Bull Salzburg, serving in an advisory role that allows him to remain connected to the sport he loves without the intense pressures of day-to-day management.
Klopp has consistently maintained a clear position regarding his future in English football, repeatedly stating on record that he would never manage another team in England besides Liverpool. This principled stance has become a defining aspect of his post-Liverpool career narrative.
Persistent Approaches from Rivals
Despite this unequivocal declaration, two of Liverpool's most significant rivals attempted to persuade Klopp to reconsider his position before he commenced his role with Red Bull in January 2025. According to Kosicke's exclusive comments to Transfermarkt, both Chelsea and Manchester United made formal inquiries about Klopp's availability.
'Even Chelsea and Manchester United inquired, although Jurgen had clearly stated that he would not coach any other club in England. These inquiries keep coming,' Kosicke revealed, emphasizing the persistent interest from top clubs despite Klopp's well-publicized position.
The agent further elaborated on Klopp's contentment with his career achievements, noting: 'He's extremely happy with what he's achieved. It's still wonderful to go down in history as one of the few coaches who only managed three clubs and were never fired.'
International Opportunities Also Declined
Beyond the Premier League approaches, Klopp also received and declined offers to manage both the United States and England national teams. These opportunities presented themselves before his commitment to the Red Bull organization, demonstrating the breadth of interest in his managerial expertise.
'Before joining Red Bull, Jurgen could have coached the USA or England,' Kosicke confirmed. 'Probably also Germany, if Julian Nagelsmann hadn't already been there.'
When asked about Klopp's potential return to management, the agent offered a measured perspective: 'Maybe at some point he'll say he needs to smell the locker room again. But at the moment he's very, very happy in his role.'
Theoretical Possibility of Liverpool Return
In a separate interview on The Diary of a CEO podcast back in October, Klopp himself addressed the possibility of a future return to Liverpool management. While not committing to any immediate plans, he left the door slightly ajar for what would be a sensational second spell at Anfield.
'I said I will never coach another team, a different team, in England. So that means if then it's Liverpool ... yeah. Theoretically it's possible,' Klopp stated thoughtfully. 'I'm 58, that means I could make the decision in a few years, I don't know. Do I have to make the decision today? Then I will not coach again. But thank God, I don't have to do that. I can just see what the future brings.'
This nuanced position suggests that while Klopp currently enjoys his advisory role with Red Bull and has no immediate ambitions to return to the pressure-cooker environment of elite club management, the emotional connection to Liverpool remains strong enough to consider a future reunion under the right circumstances.
