Why Christoph Freund reject Chelsea offer as a sporting director despite showing interest first

After Christoph Freund announced his intention to stay with Red Bull Salzburg, Chelsea will have to continue their search for a new sporting director.

Christoph Freund has emphatically stated his intention to reject Chelsea’s interest and continue as Red Bull Salzburg’s sporting director.

Chelsea began talks with the 45-year-old last month with the goal of appointing him as the club’s sporting director, a position that co-owner Todd Boehly filled on an interim basis during the summer transfer window but had no intention of holding longer term.

Following more fruitful discussions with Freund last week, Chelsea expected him to arrive at the club ahead of the World Cup. However, no agreement had been reached with Salzburg, and the Austrian side’s managing director, Stephan Reiter, stated on Sunday afternoon that Freund would remain.

Freund has now confirmed his intention to remain at Salzburg despite Chelsea’s interest. “As I have already confirmed in interviews, Chelsea FC was interested in me,” he said in a statement released this afternoon.

“When such a big club asks, it not only honours me and the work of FC Red Bull Salzburg, but it is also a personal consideration.” “However, I’ve concluded that I’m in good hands with FC Red Bull Salzburg and that a change is out of the question for me.”

“We’re in the midst of a hectic period with important tasks to complete in the Bundesliga, Cup, and Champions League – that’s where my focus and concentration are.”

“Christoph Freund has been doing excellent work for us for many years and only recently extended his contract until 2026,” Reiter added. I can confirm that he will continue to be the sporting director of FC Red Bull Salzburg.

“Of course, he informed me about Chelsea FC’s interest in him, and we exchanged ideas on a personal and pleasant level.” He will, in fact, continue to be our sporting director! There have been no inquiries about a possible change.”