Danny Rohl's decision to leave Rangers for RB Salzburg appeared to be the perfect next step in his career.
After less than a year at Ibrox, the German accepted the opportunity to return to Central Europe after a disappointing end to the season which ended with four defeats in five and a third place finish for the Gers, with Red Bull viewing him as one of the brightest young coaches in the game. It also paved the way for Derek McInnes to take over at Rangers.
However, just months after making that move, Rohl could already be facing a significant change behind the scenes.
According to reports in Germany, Jurgen Klopp is now the overwhelming favourite to become the next Germany manager following the nation's shock World Cup exit on penalties to Paraguay in the Round of 32.
The defeat is expected to bring Julian Nagelsmann's reign to an end, with Klopp emerging as the leading candidate to guide Germany into the next European Championship cycle.
If that appointment materialises, it would also represent a major development for Rohl.
Klopp was instrumental in bringing Rohl to Salzburg
When Salzburg began searching for a new head coach, Rohl quickly emerged as one of the leading candidates.
Reports from Austria revealed that Klopp, in his role as Red Bull Head of Global Football, personally pushed for the former Rangers boss to be appointed. His backing proved decisive, with Salzburg convinced Rohl was the ideal fit for the club's philosophy and long-term vision.
Having one of football's most respected figures championing your appointment is a significant advantage for any manager.
Klopp's influence within the Red Bull network gave Rohl an important ally at executive level, someone who believed in his coaching methods and was prepared to support him through the inevitable challenges that come with taking charge of one of Europe's biggest talent-development clubs.
That support may now disappear.
Biggest ally could soon be gone
Should Klopp accept the Germany job, Rohl would lose the most influential figure behind his appointment.
While Salzburg's structure extends far beyond one individual, the departure of the executive who personally advocated for him would inevitably alter the landscape.
Managers often rely on senior figures within clubs to provide stability during difficult periods. Without Klopp inside the Red Bull organisation, Rohl would be judged solely on results by a new hierarchy with no direct involvement in appointing him.
That does not mean his position would immediately become vulnerable, but it does remove an important layer of protection.
Rohl at Rangers
For Rangers, Rohl's departure was disappointing after showing signs of progress during a turbulent spell at Ibrox.
His exit prompted the appointment of McInnes, who has quickly gotten to work reshaping his Gers squad.
While Rangers have now moved forward under new leadership, there will still be interest in how Rohl fares in Austria.
Ironically, the move that looked like a major career step could become more complicated if Klopp leaves only months after playing such a decisive role in taking him to Salzburg.
For Rohl, losing his biggest supporter inside Red Bull would represent the first significant challenge of his Salzburg reign. Coming before a ball has even been kicked under a new football leadership structure.
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