Jurgen Klopp has officially closed the door on a Premier League return, with his agent revealing that both Manchester United and Chelsea failed in ambitious attempts to lure the German back to the dugout.
The 58-year-old icon, who transformed Liverpool into European and English champions during his nine-year tenure, has undergone a “metamorphosis” since leaving Anfield in 2024. Now serving as the Global Head of Soccer for the Red Bull group, Klopp’s days of “smelling the locker room” appear to be over at least for now.
The United and Chelsea Inquiries
Speaking to Transfermarkt, Klopp’s long-time representative, Marc Kosicke, confirmed that the interest from Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge was real, likely occurring during the managerial upheavals of late 2024. However, Klopp’s stance remained unshakable.
“Even Chelsea and Manchester United inquired,” Kosicke revealed. “Although Jurgen had clearly stated that he would not coach any other club in England. These inquiries haven’t stopped, but he is very happy with his new role.”
The “What If” Scenarios: England and Bayern Munich
The revelation highlights Klopp’s immense standing in the game. According to Kosicke, before joining the Red Bull project, Klopp could have taken over the England national team following Gareth Southgate’s departure, or even the USA and Germany roles.
Perhaps most surprisingly, Kosicke revealed that Bayern Munich came “very close” to signing Klopp twice once in 2008 and again in 2019, while he was already mid-success at Liverpool. On both occasions, the “momentum” wasn’t right, leaving Bayern to wonder what might have been.
A New Chapter in Management
For Manchester United fans, the news confirms the club’s ambition to hire elite-level winners, even if the “Liverpool connection” made a Klopp appointment a near-impossible dream. As United continue their journey under the interim guidance of Michael Carrick, the club’s search for a permanent figurehead remains focused on those who, unlike Klopp, are ready to return to the touchline.
As for Klopp, his move into a broader management role suggests he is prioritizing the strategic development of the Red Bull clubs (Leipzig, Salzburg, New York) over the daily pressures of the Premier League.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
