Jurgen Klopp speaks on Real Madrid links after Alonso’s sudden exit

January 13, 2026 Oliver Obel

Jurgen Klopp says the latest managerial change at Real Madrid prompted plenty of messages but no contact from the club itself.

The former Liverpool manager addressed renewed speculation after Xabi Alonso’s sudden departure from the Bernabeu, a decision that unfolded with unexpected speed and left much of European football surprised.

“I was genuinely surprised,” Klopp said, recalling his reaction. “Then a few people messaged me, and I replied to various emails. But it actually had nothing to do with Madrid.”

A decision few saw coming

Real Madrid confirmed on Monday that Alonso had left his role by mutual agreement after just 232 days in charge. The timing raised eyebrows, particularly after The Athletic reported earlier in the day that the coach was not facing immediate dismissal.

Alonso’s final appearance on the touchline came on Sunday, when Real lost 3–2 to Barcelona in the Supercopa de Espana final a result that sharpened scrutiny around an already difficult season.

Results, pressure and friction

On the pitch, Real endured defeats to Liverpool, Manchester City and Atletico Madrid, prompting criticism of Alonso’s tactical approach in high-stakes matches. After 19 games, the club sits second in La Liga, four points behind Barcelona.

Off the field, BBC Sport reported that tensions had been building. According to the broadcaster, Alonso argued with striker Kylian Mbappe over tactical instructions ahead of the Barcelona match and later had a separate disagreement with club president Florentino Perez on Monday. The sequence of events suggested a decision taken quickly rather than weeks in advance.

A familiar face steps in

Instead of appointing an external caretaker, Real promoted former defender Alvaro Arbeloa from his position as head coach of Castilla.

The move fits a broader pattern at the Bernabeu. With the exception of Carlo Ancelotti, every Real Madrid manager since 2013 has either previously played for or coached the club a preference that often resurfaces during periods of uncertainty.

Klopp’s view from the outside

Klopp, who left Liverpool in the summer of 2024 and now serves as Red Bull’s head of global football, has frequently been linked with Real Madrid during previous managerial vacancies.

Asked on Servus TV whether his phone had been busier since Alonso’s exit, he acknowledged the interest but ruled out any approach from the Spanish champions.

“It actually has [started ringing] though not from Madrid,” Klopp said. “There were definitely a few people who felt they had to contact me directly about it.”

Reflecting more broadly, Klopp said Alonso’s short spell underlined how unforgiving elite management can be.

“If a coach like Xabi Alonso, who showed at Leverkusen what an outstanding talent he is, has to leave after six months,” he said, “it tells you everything about the expectations at Real Madrid.”

Sources: BBC Sport, The Athletic