Pep Lijnders has been dismissed as RB Salzburg head coach, just days ahead of Jurgen Klopp’s debut as Red Bull’s global football head.
Lijnders, who left Liverpool at the end of last season for the Austrian role, struggled to meet expectations.
Salzburg’s leadership team, including CEO Stephan Reiter and Sporting Director Rouven Schroder, explained their decision:
“We recently began analyzing what has been a disappointing season. It became clear that we were far short of our objectives. The team needs new energy under new management.”
The club is now searching for a replacement, aiming to have a new manager in place for training on January 3, 2025.
Meanwhile, Klopp will officially start his new strategic role overseeing Red Bull’s football projects on January 1.
Addressing speculation around his return to football, Klopp clarified his decision during Toni Kroos’ podcast:
“I didn’t want another role as a manager. At 57, I still want to work, but stepping back onto the sidelines wasn’t the plan. Then Red Bull came with the perfect opportunity.”
Although Klopp’s move has sparked debate, his focus will remain on Red Bull’s football strategy rather than day-to-day coaching—a stark contrast to Lijnders’ now-short-lived tenure in Salzburg.