Jurgen Klopp’s Admiration for Major League Soccer
Jurgen Klopp, the former manager of Liverpool, has expressed admiration for Major League Soccer (MLS) and its potential for growth over the next five years during his recent visit to the New York Red Bulls. Since leaving his position at Liverpool last year, Klopp has taken on a role as the head of global soccer for the Red Bull organization. During his visit, he attended a training session with the New York Red Bulls, who are gearing up for their upcoming match against New York City FC in the Hudson River derby.
Insights on MLS Growth
Klopp shared his insights on the increasing quality of play in MLS, stating,
“I’m 100% sure, in five years time, we [will] speak completely differently. I’m really sure it will grow and grow and grow.”
He highlighted the positive developments in youth soccer programs, where children are starting to engage with the sport earlier and benefiting from improved training environments. He noted the high intensity and talent present in the league, saying,
“The quality is really, really good. Good players, a lot of talent.”
Record Investments and Competitive Landscape
In 2025, MLS made headlines by breaking its transfer records, with teams investing close to $336 million in player transfers, nearly double the previous year’s figures. The notable arrival of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami in 2023 has played a significant role in enhancing the league’s profile, while Son Heung-Min’s transfer from Tottenham Hotspur for a record $26 million in 2025 further underscores MLS’s increasing competitiveness.
Klopp’s Role and Future Outlook
The Red Bulls, currently under Klopp’s watchful eye as part of the expansive Red Bull ownership group — which includes clubs like RB Leipzig, Red Bull Salzburg, and Bragantino — faced their derby match from a challenging position, sitting 10th in the Eastern Conference, just outside the playoff spots. Klopp commented,
„I don’t think we played exactly the season we wanted to play, but that’s OK; that happens, but we are still in a position to fight for it.”
This indicates a positive outlook despite their current standing.
Impressions of Training Facilities
Additionally, Klopp was highly impressed by the Red Bulls’ new training facility located in Morris Township, New Jersey, calling it
“outstanding”
and emphasizing the high-quality opportunities it offers for player development. His visit reflects both his confidence in the growth of MLS and his desire to contribute to its ongoing evolution as it gains traction on the international soccer stage.
