Jurgen Klopp's name is being thrown around again. This time, it's coming from Brazil.
Flamengo president Luiz Eduardo Baptista has made it clear that if current manager Filipe Luis leaves, the club would go after a big European name. And yes, he specifically mentioned Klopp.
Filipe Luis only signed a contract extension last December. But the former Chelsea defender is already being linked with moves back to Europe. That's got Baptista thinking about replacements.
"Just as Filipe can consider Europe, why couldn't Flamengo consider a European coach?" Baptista told AS. "If I can bring in Lucas Paquetá, why couldn't I bring in Klopp?"
He's got a point about Paquetá. The Brazilian midfielder just made the surprising move from West Ham back to Flamengo. If they can pull that off, maybe they could tempt a big-name manager too.
What's Klopp Up To Now?
Klopp hasn't managed since leaving Liverpool at the end of the 2023-24 season. But he's not sitting on a beach somewhere.
The 58-year-old took a job as Red Bull's Head of Global Soccer in January 2025. That move raised eyebrows since he'd previously criticized multi-club ownership models. Now he's working for a company that owns several clubs worldwide.
Real Madrid has also been linked with Klopp. With Xabi Alonso having left earlier this season, the Spanish giants need long-term planning. For now, they've backed Álvaro Arbeloa, but Klopp remains a name on their radar.
Is Klopp Interested?
Here's the thing: Klopp has been pretty clear he's not rushing back to the touchline. In an interview last October, he opened up about his current mindset.
"I love what I do now," Klopp said. "I don't miss coaching. I don't miss standing in the rain for two-and-a-half or three hours."
He went on to say he doesn't miss press conferences, constant interviews, or even being in the dressing room. After coaching around 1,080 games, that's understandable.
But he didn't completely close the door. "I could make a decision in a few years," Klopp admitted. "I don't know. Do I have to make a decision today? I will not coach again, but thank God I do not have to do that."
For bettors keeping an eye on managerial markets, this is worth noting. Flamengo might be dreaming big, but Klopp seems content in his current role. Any odds on him returning to management anytime soon should probably be treated with caution. The German coach appears happy away from the day-to-day grind of club management, at least for now.
