Jurgen Klopp comments on potential Real Madrid role

January 20, 2026 Oliver Obel

Jurgen Klopp has sought to cool speculation linking him with Real Madrid, making clear that he is comfortable in his current role and not actively looking for a return to full-time coaching.

The former Liverpool manager has been repeatedly named as a possible long-term solution for Madrid as the Spanish club navigate a period of instability. Klopp, however, has indicated that the rumours do not reflect his current mindset or ambitions.

Now 58, Klopp stepped away from club management at the end of the 2023–24 season and has since taken on a strategic role as Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer. Speaking to The Athletic, he acknowledged the reports but suggested they had been exaggerated, describing them as “partly amused and partly exasperated”.

Life away from the dugout

Klopp stressed that while he remains capable of managing at the highest level, he does not feel the need to continue coaching indefinitely. He said his work with Red Bull has offered a different perspective on football, exposing him to new areas of the sport beyond matchday preparation.

According to Klopp, the role has involved extensive collaboration, business meetings, and learning experiences that have broadened his outlook. He added that he feels settled both professionally and personally, and has no desire to be “somewhere else” at this stage.

Madrid searching for stability

Speculation around Klopp has intensified against the backdrop of uncertainty at the Bernabéu. Real Madrid confirmed last week that Xabi Alonso had left his position as first-team coach, with the decision described as a mutual agreement.

In a club statement, Madrid praised Alonso’s contribution and values, saying he would “always have the affection and admiration” of supporters and that the club would remain “his home”.

Former Madrid and Liverpool defender Alvaro Arbeloa was subsequently placed in temporary charge as the club weighs its next steps.

Mixed results for interim coach

Arbeloa’s first match in charge ended in a heavy Copa del Rey defeat to Albacete, a result that drew criticism and underlined the fragile mood around the team. Madrid responded days later with a league win over Levante, giving Arbeloa his first victory as interim manager.

Despite the improvement, the club has not publicly outlined a timeline for appointing a permanent successor, leaving room for continued speculation.

Klopp keeps distance from Madrid links

Alongside Klopp, former Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has also been linked with a potential return, though there has been no confirmation of any formal approach.

Klopp has repeatedly distanced himself from the discussion. In earlier comments, he said the links came as a genuine surprise and insisted they had no bearing on his future plans. For now, while Madrid continue their search, Klopp appears content to remain focused on his current chapter away from the touchline.

Sources: The Athletic, Real Madrid CF, SPORTbible