Red Bull Signs Roger Schmidt to Succeed Klopp

Mintzlaff Praises Schmidt’s Expertise

“We are very pleased to welcome Roger Schmidt back to Red Bull. With his many years of experience, his outstanding soccer expertise, and his clear understanding of our philosophy, he is the right person to lead the sporting direction of our global soccer portfolio,” said Red Bull’s sports chief Oliver Mintzlaff, adding: “Throughout his career, he has earned an outstanding reputation for developing young talent and successfully advancing them to the highest level. His bold, intense style of play—featuring aggressive pressing and fast-paced attacking soccer—is a perfect fit for our soccer DNA.”

Schmidt, 59, made a name for himself as head coach of RB Salzburg between 2012 and 2014, where he achieved significant success. This was followed by coaching stints at Bayer Leverkusen, Beijing Guoan (China), PSV Eindhoven, and Benfica Lisbon. Most recently, he served as Global Sports Director of Japan’s J-League. His name had repeatedly been mentioned as a potential coach for RB Leipzig, but he consistently turned down the offers.