Jurgen Klopp would reportedly “seriously consider” taking over at Real Madrid if the club approach him following Xabi Alonso’s sudden departure.
Xabi Alonso left the Bernabeu after just eight months in charge following Real Madrid’s 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final, with Alvaro Arbeloa appointed as his replacement.
[Sky Sports reports] Klopp, now working as Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer, could be tempted back into management by the appeal of coaching Real Madrid.
Alonso’s exit follows a difficult spell that saw Madrid surrender a five-point La Liga lead to Barcelona and fall four points behind their rivals, amid reports of dressing-room tensions involving senior players.
[The Athletic reports] Klopp had previously insisted he did not miss management, admitting the role took him “far away from normal life” and that he is fulfilled in his current position.
However, speaking after Alonso’s departure, Klopp confirmed he had been contacted about the situation, while distancing himself from any immediate involvement.
[Servus TV reports] Klopp said he was “genuinely surprised” by Alonso’s dismissal, adding that it underlined the enormous expectations and lack of patience at Real Madrid.
Arbeloa, who has stepped up from Madrid’s reserve side, said he will remain in charge “as long as Real Madrid want me to be.”
Real Madrid return to action in the Copa del Rey against Albacete, with Arbeloa’s future likely to depend on results in the coming weeks.