Red Bull New York head coach Michael Bradley is grateful for the mentorship provided by managerial legend Jürgen Klopp, who spent 18 months as Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer before being named head coach of the German men’s national team on Friday.
“It’s bittersweet,” Bradley said of Klopp’s departure from the Red Bull organization during his Friday press conference at RWJBarnabas Health Red Bulls Performance Center in Morris Township, New Jersey.
Klopp’s Belief Helped Shape Bradley’s Coaching Path
Bradley, who is in his first season as head coach of Red Bull New York, credited Klopp’s belief for allowing him to rise quickly from head coach of Red Bull New York II to managing in Major League Soccer.
“I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for Jurgen,” he stated. “There are a few people who belong in that category, but Jürgen is absolutely one of them. When I had the opportunity to meet him early last year, he saw something in me, was willing to give and was absolutely on board in giving me an opportunity to be at this club.
“I will always be thankful and grateful to him for that. As a young coach, the ability to spend amazing time with him in the last year and a half. I’ll never forget that — conversations out by the field, phone calls, FaceTimes, you name it. The relationship that we created and my ability as a mentor and a sounding board for so many different things, that part I was incredibly lucky with.”
Bradley had led Red Bull New York to six wins, four draws and six losses in MLS play. The Red Bulls are currently in eighth place in the Eastern Conference, having gained 22 points through 16 matches played.
Bradley Always Knew Klopp Would Return to Coaching
In spending valuable time with Klopp, Bradley knew that the 59-year-old would eventually return to coaching. Klopp last coached Liverpool, where he delivered seven major trophies, including the 2019-20 Premier League title and a victory in the 2019 UEFA Champions League final.
“I know that he loves football and he loves coaching and he loves being on the field,” Bradley explained. “With his competitiveness and personality. I always knew that he wasn’t going to stay at Red Bull forever.
“So the opportunity came for him to probably fulfil a dream of his to coach the German national team and to move German football forward. I’m on a personal level really excited for him in what the opportunity will mean.”
Klopp’s Teachings Will Continue To Influence Bradley, Red Bull New York
Bradley hopes that Klopp will continue to be a mentor even though the German national team job will require a tremendous commitment.
“From my side, I for sure hope that door remains open,” Bradley said. “Obviously, he’ll be a little bit busier now in certain periods.
“I’m always cognizant and understanding of the time that people need when they’re doing things and have their own ventures in jobs and interests. In the end, the relationship that we’ve created will mean that part will always be there.”
Similar to Klopp, Bradley possesses a deep passion for the beautiful game and an ability to connect that passion to his players. The advice and teachings offered by Klopp will serve him well in the coming years.
Red Bull New York welcomes Charlotte FC to Sports Illustrated Stadium on Saturday with kick-off set for 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time.
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