Red Bull are beginning their search for a new Head of Global Soccer with Jürgen Klopp widely expected to take charge of the German national team. The Austrian energy drink company is looking to fill the position currently held by the 59-year-old Klopp, who has been linked with the Germany job since Hansi Flick’s dismissal last September.
According to Sport Bild, Eintracht Frankfurt board member for sport Markus Krösche is the current frontrunner for the role. Krösche’s strong network of contacts, talent identification skills, and proven transfer record align with the qualities Red Bull are seeking in a successor.
While no formal discussions have taken place between Red Bull and Krösche at this stage, the 45-year-old is familiar with the organisation, having previously served as sporting director of RB Leipzig between 2019 and 2021. His departure from Leipzig was reportedly due to internal disagreements, but his relationship with Red Bull chief Oliver Mintzlaff has reportedly been repaired.
Alongside Krösche, former New York Red Bulls forward Thierry Henry is also being considered as a potential candidate. Henry has gained coaching experience with Monaco and the French national youth teams, and currently holds an investment stake in Italian Serie B club Como, alongside working as a football pundit. He enjoyed a distinguished playing career, most notably with Arsenal, where he became the club’s all-time leading goalscorer.
Another name in contention is former Red Bull Salzburg coach Roger Schmidt. The 59-year-old Schmidt, who has also managed Bayer Leverkusen, PSV Eindhoven and Benfica, currently works as a Global Football Advisor for the J.League in Japan. His previous success within the Red Bull system makes him a viable option.
Red Bull’s swift action to identify potential replacements suggests they anticipate Klopp’s departure, and the appointment will be crucial in maintaining the consistency of their footballing philosophy across their global network of clubs. The successful candidate will oversee the sporting direction of clubs including RB Leipzig, Red Bull Salzburg, and the New York Red Bulls.
