'Football died' when Klopp joined Red Bull

BERLIN - Jurgen Klopp's decision to join Red Bull as their Global Head of Soccer has sparked strong reactions from many German fans.

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Klopp, who once embodied the romantic ideals of football by coaching underdogs Mainz 05 to the first division, reviving a struggling Borussia Dortmund and restoring glory to Liverpool, is now seen as switching allegiances.

For years, Red Bull has faced criticism from fans worried about the increasing commercialisation of the sport they love.

Klopp, to many, represented a guardian of traditional football values, a hard-working, authentic figure who connected with the crowd.

Now, at 57, the former Liverpool boss has returned to the football scene in a surprising new role, and has faced ridicule and criticism.