Klopp Turned Down Chelsea, United and Four Other Suitors After Leaving Liverpool

Jurgen Klopp could have walked into a number of elite positions when he stepped away from Liverpool at the end of 2023/24, according to his representative Marc Kosicke, but the German has instead settled into his new gig overseeing soccer operations for the Red Bull group.

The Anfield icon delivered Liverpool's first Premier League crown in the modern era alongside Champions League, FA Cup, and two League Cup triumphs during his nine-year tenure. His departure came amid declarations of burnout and a firm commitment to avoid another managerial post on English soil.

Kosicke has now lifted the lid on the calibre of opportunities that came knocking. Speaking about his client's future prospects, the agent disclosed that both Chelsea and Manchester United made formal enquiries—though he was careful to note that Klopp had already made his position abundantly clear on managing elsewhere in England. Both clubs have since denied making any such approaches.

The list of interested parties extended further still. National team roles with the United States, England, and potentially Germany were among the offers considered, though Klopp's stance has remained resolute. He has repeatedly insisted that his days as a full-time coach are behind him, at least for now.

Bayern Munich also features in Klopp's history of near-misses. Kosicke revealed that the Bavarian giants came remarkably close to securing his services on two separate occasions. Back in 2008, club president Uli Hoeness championed the move, only for executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge to push for Jurgen Klinsmann instead. Years later, following Niko Kovac's dismissal in November 2019, Bayern made another approach while Klopp was still at Liverpool—a moment when Hansi Flick's eventual appointment meant the timing simply didn't align.

When addressing the prospect of a coaching return, Klopp has been characteristically philosophical. He recently remarked that he harbours no expectations of reversing course, though he acknowledged the uncertainty inherent in such declarations. In a playful touch, he referenced the sprawling trophy room being constructed at his home, suggesting it would remain largely empty given his conviction that he has already achieved what he set out to accomplish on the touchline. "It might sound arrogant," he admitted, "but I know I can coach a football team. But I don't need to do it until my last day."