Jurgen Klopp continues to be the frontrunner in the race to replace Xabi Alonso as Real Madrid manager. The German is currently Head of Global Soccer at Red Bull and has been out of management since leaving Liverpool at the end of the 2023-24 season.
Madrid president Florentino Perez is known to be an admirer of Klopp, whom he called 'phenomenal' back in 2019. He is regarded as one of the most highly-rated coaches in football history, transforming Liverpool during a nine-year reign at Anfield.
Klopp has now twice responded to speculation over him potentially taking over the at the Estadio Bernabeu. On the face of it seems to be playing down the possibility but slightly keeping the door open.
Klopp: I wouldn't rule anything out
Klopp previously pointed out how Alonso's dismissal makes clear issues behind the scenes at Madrid. This was part of his first comments when the club's managerial vacancy was put to him.
The German has reaffirmed his position by claiming he's happy with his role at Red Bull. But he did claim to not be ruling anything out (via Madrid Zone):
"Excited that Real Madrid are showing interest in me? NO, because they're NOT really interested, it's just media hype.
I'm consistent and I don't change my mind overnight. Of course, I wouldn't rule anything out completely, but I'm 58 years old and I'm very happy in my position here."
Klopp has been hugely succesful during his managerial career and oversaw 304 wins in 489 games in charge of Liverpool. He ended the Reds' 30-year wait for a league title while also taking them to Champions League glory.
Perez is expected to make a decision over Madrid's next permanent manager at the end of the season. For now, Alvaro Arbeloa will be seeing out the campaign on a caretaker basis.
Fans might be jumping the gun over Klopp-Madrid
Klopp has twice suggested there is no interest from Madrid in him or that he is eyeing the job. But that hasn't stopped Madridistas from reading between the lines and concluding that the former Borussia Dortmund boss is deep down waiting for a call.
🚨 Jurgen Klopp: "Excited that Real Madrid are showing interest in me? NO, because they're NOT really interested, it's just media hype.
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) January 19, 2026
I'm consistent and I don't change my mind overnight. Of course, I wouldn't rule anything out completely, but I'm 58 years old and I'm very… pic.twitter.com/tTWYEA3o3v
One fan responded to Klopp's latest comments with excitement: "OK now I’m sure he’s joining."
Another supporter was already celebrating as if the German had been appointed: JURGEN Klopp EXCITING TIMES AHEAD."
This was echoed by one fan: "He wants the job give him , he will cook really hard."
Another added: "The moment you hear, "I wouldn't rule out anything" in any statement, just know that there's hope."
One fan joked: "Fabrizio Romano in a few hours: "Jurgen Klopp is in constant communication with Real Madrid's board, they're ironing the last details for their offer."
If Madrid were to approach Klopp for the job then it is vital for Perez to give him promises and that includes having control. This was something that Alonso wasn't handed and explained by David Ornstein who suggested players and the board have more of a say than the coach.