Red Bull have purchased a minority stake in Leeds United.
Red Bull have purchased a minority stake in Leeds United.

Red Bull could set massive Leeds United changes in motion after Jurgen Klopp appointment

Jonathan Burnett

Jonny is a University of Leeds journalism graduate who became part of the FootballInsider team in Spring 2024, and recently worked as Head of Media for Widnes Vikings Rugby League club. Writing as a freelance reporter and commentator for The Sporting News and StatsPerform, he has covered matches in competitions including the FIFA Men's and Women's World Cups, as well as the Champions League, Women's Euro 2022, Six Nations and the Rugby Union World Cup.

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Red Bull's influence could go into overdrive at Leeds United after announcing the new appointment of Jurgen Klopp.

Florian Plettenberg reported on X (9 October) that the former Liverpool manager will become Red Bull's global head of football in January 2025, signing a long-term contract with the Austrian conglomerate.

Having purchased a minority stake in Leeds United as well as agreeing a record-breaking shirt sponsorship deal, Red Bull's influence over football operations at Elland Road could increase with Klopp at the helm.

Red Bull development double-edged sword for Leeds United fans

While Plettenberg refrained from including the Whites as a "Red Bull team", it's true that United are the only club at least part-owned by the energy drink giant which they haven't rebranded in their colours.

Despite this, news of Klopp's appointment as their global football advisor could set alarm bells ringing at Elland Road, with fans previously concerned over the loss of individual identity which Red Bull brings.

Nick Ellerby recently insisted on talkSPORT (9 October, 8:53) that things could go "boom" at Leeds based on the news, something that no fan would be mad at.

While Klopp's expertise in coaching, player development, transfers and style of play would undoubtedly be beneficial for the Peacocks, that advice being given to several clubs won't endear Leeds fans.

The conglomerate would need to become majority shareholders for Klopp's influence to truly be felt at Elland Road, but the German would still likely be able to advise on football operations.

Klopp and Daniel Farke didn't quite overlap in the Borussia Dortmund coaching ranks, but you'd hardly blame the Whites boss for taking stock with a Premier League and Champions League winner.

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