Jurgen Klopp Linked to Surprising Managerial Comeback That Could See Him Up Against Liverpool

Legendary former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has been linked to a surprising managerial comeback that could see him face off against the Reds.

Klopp stepped down from his role at Anfield at the end of the 2023-24 season, moving away from frontline football management to take up a position as Global Head of Soccer at Red Bull.

Liverpool have thrived since his departure, cruising to a Premier League title in their first season under new boss Arne Slot. Klopp, who previously managed Mainz and Borussia Dortmund, won the league with Liverpool and earned a cherished place in the hearts of Merseyside fans during his nine years in charge.

His tactical acumen made him a valuable asset for Red Bull, the global multi-club ownership group where he now oversees clubs like RB Leipzig, Red Bull Salzburg, New York Red Bulls, and others. This role keeps him on the radar of top clubs seeking new leadership—and the latest potential suitor might soon make a move, according to reports.

In Portugal, Benfica is currently amid a presidential election. Candidates vying to replace incumbent Rui Costa have been laying out their plans amid a tense campaign, causing some uncertainty for current head coach Bruno Lage.

One candidate, Cristovao Carvalho, has promised increased transparency, a commitment to excellence, sound financial management, and a bold pledge to replace Lage at the end of his contract with Klopp.

“Lage won’t remain beyond his contract,” Carvalho told SIC Noticias. “I want a coach of the highest level, someone who has won the Champions League and wants to win it with Benfica. There’s only one name that fits: Jurgen Klopp. He has even said Benfica is a great club he’d like to coach someday. When someone says that, it shows they have something special to offer the club.”

Could Klopp Face Liverpool Again?
If Klopp does return to management, the kind of roles he’s likely to pursue make a future clash with Liverpool quite possible. Benfica, who battled through qualifying rounds against Nice and Fenerbahce, are competing in the Champions League this season and expect to be in the competition again in 2026-27.

This season, Benfica was drawn into a group with Chelsea and Newcastle United, making encounters with Liverpool’s rivals likely—setting the stage for a potential Klopp versus Liverpool showdown down the line.