Marc Kosicke, the longtime representative for Jurgen Klopp, has revealed that the legendary German tactician dismissed formal inquiries from both Manchester United and Chelsea following his emotional exit from Anfield. Since concluding his transformative nine-year tenure with Liverpool in 2024, Klopp has prioritized a departure from the high-pressure environment of the touchline, eventually transitioning into his current role as the Head of Global Soccer for the Red Bull group. Despite his clear intentions to step away from English club management, Kosicke confirmed that Liverpool’s primary Premier League rivals persistently attempted to lure the 58-year-old back to the dugout.
The revelation underscores Klopp’s unwavering commitment to the “red” half of Merseyside, as he had previously vowed never to lead another domestic competitor in the United Kingdom. While the Football Association and the United States Soccer Federation also explored the possibility of appointing Klopp as their national team manager before hiring Thomas Tuchel and Mauricio Pochettino respectively, the German remained steadfast in his desire for a fresh professional challenge. His current executive position allows him to oversee the strategic development of clubs like RB Leipzig and the New York Red Bulls without the daily rigors of Premier League coaching.
“Before joining Red Bull, Jurgen could have coached the USA or England,” Kosicke told Transfermarkt. “Probably also Germany, if Julian Nagelsmann hadn’t already been there. Even Chelsea and Manchester United inquired, although Jurgen had clearly stated that he would not coach any other club in England. These enquiries keep coming.”
Klopp’s refusal to engage with the Old Trafford or Stamford Bridge hierarchies has further cemented his legacy among the Liverpool faithful. His agent noted that while Klopp is currently “extremely happy” in his boardroom-focused role, the allure of the locker room might eventually return. However, for the foreseeable future, Klopp appears content to operate behind the scenes, providing mentorship and tactical vision for the Red Bull network while maintaining the integrity of his connection to the city of Liverpool.
The news comes as Manchester United and Chelsea continue to navigate their own managerial transitions in early 2026, with both clubs reportedly “vehemently refuting” that a formal offer was ever extended. Nevertheless, Kosicke’s comments highlight the immense vacuum Klopp left in the European coaching market and the rare loyalty he continues to show toward his former employers. As the World Cup approaches, Klopp’s influence continues to be felt across the globe, albeit from a strategic distance rather than the tactical technical area.
About the Author
