Jürgen Klopp’s upcoming move to the Red Bull Group is causing a lot of discussion. Now the legendary coach has responded to the criticism.

Legendary coach Jürgen Klopp has defended his move to the Red Bull Group, responding to criticism in recent weeks. “It was always clear, at least to me, that I wasn’t going to do nothing. And then the Red Bull story came up. So for me, it’s outstanding, I have to say,” Klopp said on the podcast “Einfach mal Luppen” hosted by brothers Toni and Felix Kroos.

Klopp will take up a strategic position as “Head of Global Soccer” in the RB soccer universe on January 1, 2025. Soccer romantics in particular are critical of Klopp’s decision. Their criticism: the energy drink company is buying success with its millions, and soccer is merely a means of advertising an energy drink.

Klopp sees things differently. When he played against RB Leipzig in the Champions League, there wasn’t a single player on the field who couldn’t have been signed by any other club, Klopp explained. Players like Willi Orban, Kevin Kampl, and Yussuf Poulsen are “absolute club legends.” In addition, young players such as Dayot Upamecano, Ibrahima Konaté, and Christopher Nkunku have been signed, who could have been signed by anyone else. “That’s just the way it is,” Klopp emphasized.

“I have to say that I never followed the Red Bull story very critically,” said the 57-year-old, who became a fan favorite during his coaching stints at FSV Mainz 05, Borussia Dortmund, and Liverpool FC.

After Klopp’s move was made official, Mainz fans protested against their former coach’s decision with banners during their club’s match against RB Leipzig. “I didn’t want to step on anyone’s toes, definitely not. And I personally love all my former clubs,” said Klopp, adding: “I don’t really know what I could have done to make everyone happy.”