Levi Rothermund
Former Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp is reportedly open to becoming Real Madrid’s next head coach, should the Spanish giants make a serious and well-structured approach.
The German tactician has found himself linked with Los Blancos following another turbulent spell at the Bernabéu, with Real Madrid exiting the Copa del Rey and parting ways with Xabi Alonso in the aftermath. Despite the speculation, Klopp was quick to publicly distance himself from the rumours earlier this week.
“First of all, I think it’s another sign that something isn’t quite right there at the moment. This has absolutely nothing to do with me, and it didn’t trigger anything for me either,” Klopp said when asked about the situation in Madrid.
Klopp Content at Red Bull – But Doors Not Fully Closed
Since stepping away from Liverpool, Klopp has settled into his role as Head of Global Soccer for the Red Bull football group, overseeing long-term sporting strategy rather than day-to-day management. By all accounts, he is enjoying the executive side of the game and has repeatedly stressed his satisfaction with the project.
However, according to respected journalist Florian Plettenberg, a return to the dugout cannot be fully ruled out.
“Jürgen Klopp is seriously considering a return as head coach should Real Madrid make a concrete move for the summer,” Plettenberg reported. “Real Madrid have always fascinated him. He is happy at Red Bull and strongly identifies with the project, but there are at least two roles he would consider if everything fits: Real Madrid and the German national team.”
The report adds that the Klopp–Real Madrid link is “one to watch” ahead of the summer of 2026.
Why Real Madrid Could Be the Exception
Klopp has previously stated that he would “never coach another English club” after Liverpool, effectively ruling out any Premier League return. Crucially, though, he has never applied the same restriction to Europe.
Real Madrid represent a unique challenge: elite talent, relentless expectations, and a platform capable of matching Klopp’s ambition and legacy. While life in football’s executive inner circle may suit him now, opportunities of this magnitude are rare.
If Madrid do come calling with a clear sporting vision and long-term backing, saying no may prove far more difficult than Klopp publicly admits.
Summer 2026 may still be some way off—but this is a storyline that refuses to disappear.