Klopp linked to Real Madrid amid lingering doubts over club’s direction

January 26, 2026 Oliver Obel

Real Madrid’s short-term stability may have improved on the pitch, but uncertainty around the club’s long-term leadership continues to drive speculation in Spain including renewed links to former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.

Klopp, who stepped away from day-to-day management last year and now serves as Red Bull’s global head of football, has been mentioned internally by Real Madrid officials, according to Spanish media. For now, however, any potential move appears to be paused.

A coaching change without clarity

Earlier this month, Real dismissed Xabi Alonso after fewer than eight months in charge, opting for a swift internal solution by promoting former defender Alvaro Arbeloa from the Castilla setup.

The decision was made with little public explanation. Real did not disclose contract terms or outline Arbeloa’s mandate, an unusual lack of detail for a club known for tightly managed messaging.

Arbeloa’s debut proved damaging, as Real were eliminated from the Copa del Rey at the third-round stage by second-tier Albacete. While subsequent results steadied the mood including a 2-0 La Liga win over Levante and a 6-1 Champions League victory against Monaco questions about long-term planning remain unresolved.

Klopp speculation, cautiously handled

According to Diario AS, Klopp’s name was discussed by senior figures at Real earlier this month, though the outlet reports that the idea is currently “on hold.”

Klopp addressed the rumours in comments reported by The Athletic, striking a dismissive tone.

“I know I can coach a football team, but that doesn't mean I have to do it until my last day ... I don't want to be somewhere else,” he said, adding that he was “partly amused and partly exasperated” by the speculation.

The comments reinforced the sense that Klopp is not actively seeking a return to the dugout, despite continued interest from elite clubs.

Squad implications if plans change

If Klopp were ever to reconsider, Madrid-based outlet Defensa Central reports that his arrival would likely be accompanied by significant squad turnover.

The report claims full-backs Dani Carvajal and Ferland Mendy would be among the players most at risk in a rebuild aligned with Klopp’s preferences.

Carvajal, now 34, is approaching the end of his contract this summer after returning from an ACL injury, while Mendy has endured another disrupted campaign, restricted to minimal appearances due to recurring muscle problems.

For now, Real’s immediate focus remains on results under Arbeloa. But the absence of long-term clarity continues to leave the door open to speculation and to familiar names re-entering the conversation.

Sources: Diario AS, The Athletic, Defensa Central