A surprising new twist is emerging inside the Red Bull football empire — and it could put Rangers at the center of one of the most intriguing managerial stories of 2026.
According to a report from German publication Bild, Jurgen Klopp wants Rangers manager Danny Rohl to become the next head coach of Red Bull Salzburg.
At first glance, it may sound like just another coaching rumor.
But the deeper you look, the more significant it becomes.
This is not simply about filling a vacancy in Austria. It is about one of football’s most influential organizations identifying a young manager it believes could help shape its future.
And that is where the story starts getting interesting.
Klopp’s Search Has Reportedly Led to Glasgow
Red Bull Salzburg are searching for a new manager following the departure of Daniel Beichler.
As head of global soccer operations for Red Bull, Klopp is heavily involved in the group’s football strategy, and reports suggest he has identified Danny Rohl as his preferred candidate for the role.
The timing is notable.
Salzburg are desperate to recover from one of the most disappointing seasons of the Red Bull era.
The Austrian club finished third in the league, their lowest position since Red Bull’s takeover, and failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League after a difficult campaign that ended with a 3-1 defeat to Hartberg.
A reset is needed.
And Klopp reportedly sees Rohl as the man to lead it.
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Why Rohl Has Attracted Attention
The 37-year-old German has built a strong reputation across European football.
Before taking charge of Rangers in October 2025, Rohl worked alongside Hansi Flick at Bayern Munich and with the German national team, gaining experience at the highest level of the game.
That background matters.
Red Bull clubs have long prioritized energetic football, tactical innovation, and player development. Those qualities are closely associated with Rohl’s coaching profile.
According to the report, his ability to work with young players is a major reason why he has emerged as the leading candidate.
Key Factors Behind Red Bull’s Interest
- Experience under Hansi Flick
- Strong reputation among young European coaches
- Focus on player development
- Tactical background suited to Red Bull’s football model
- Previous links to the Red Bull network
But that’s only part of the story.
Rangers Could Face an Unexpected Challenge
When Rohl arrived at Ibrox in October 2025, Rangers were searching for stability.
He is credited with helping steady the club and guiding them through a difficult period, although a late-season injury crisis ultimately hurt their Scottish Premiership title challenge.
Importantly, Rohl remains under contract until 2028.
That means any move would not be straightforward.
Reports indicate contact has already been made with Rangers to explore the possibility of a deal and understand the potential cost involved.
For Rangers supporters, that creates an uncomfortable question.
Just as the club appears to be building something stable, could one of Europe’s most connected football networks come calling?
The Red Bull Connection Isn’t New
This is not the first time Rohl’s name has surfaced inside Red Bull circles.
Last summer, he was reportedly considered for the RB Leipzig job before the Bundesliga club chose Ole Werner instead.
That detail may prove significant.
It suggests that interest in Rohl is not sudden.
Rather, it appears he has been on the radar of key decision-makers within the Red Bull system for some time.
Now, with Salzburg searching for a fresh direction, another opportunity may have emerged.
Quick Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Rohl joins Rangers | October 2025 |
| Linked with RB Leipzig role | Previous summer |
| Salzburg begin manager search | Following Beichler departure |
| Klopp reportedly targets Rohl | June 2026 |
Contrarian View: Why Leaving Rangers May Not Be So Simple
While the reported interest is significant, there is another side to this story.
Rohl has publicly emphasized his commitment to Rangers.
In a recent interview, he said:
“My focus is here in Glasgow. I like the job because I can compete for titles here, and internationally as well. It’s a very good opportunity that I enjoy very much.”
Those comments do not sound like someone actively seeking an exit.
Rangers also offer something Salzburg currently cannot guarantee: immediate competition for major domestic honors and regular exposure on the European stage.
That does not eliminate the possibility of a move.
But it highlights why the situation may be more complicated than it first appears.
What Happens Next?
The coming weeks could be crucial.
Red Bull Salzburg want a swift appointment. Klopp reportedly has a preferred candidate. Rangers have a manager under a long-term contract. And Danny Rohl suddenly finds himself at the center of growing speculation.
Whether a formal move materializes remains to be seen.
But one thing is clear: a managerial decision in Austria now has the potential to create ripple effects from Salzburg to Glasgow and across the wider Red Bull football network.
The biggest question lingering over this story is simple — if Jurgen Klopp personally wants Danny Rohl for one of Red Bull’s most important clubs, how difficult will it be for Rangers to keep hold of him?
Editorial Disclaimer: This article is based solely on publicly available information and reporting referenced in the source material. No facts, quotes, outcomes, timelines, or insider information have been added or fabricated. Analysis and developments may evolve as new information emerges.