Key Takeaways:
- Jurgen Klopp has only expressed interest in returning to management for Real Madrid or the German national team since stepping down at Liverpool in May 2024
- Despite currently serving as Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull since January 2025, Klopp is said to hold a “strong identification” with the project
- Following Xabi Alonso’s dismissal from Real Madrid after a 3-2 loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup, Klopp has been heavily linked as a potential successor, though he has denied any contact
Klopp’s Latest Career Developments
Jurgen Klopp, aged 58, has remained absent from the touchline since concluding his distinguished nine-year spell with Liverpool in May 2024, having cited exhaustion as a key reason for his departure. In the months that followed, Klopp took on the role of Head of Global Soccer at Red Bull in January 2025, overseeing operations across all of the brand’s football clubs.
In June, the former Borussia Dortmund manager indicated that he might not return to management, admitting he no longer wished to live the demanding lifestyle of a top football coach.
🚨👑 Jürgen #Klopp is seriously considering a return as head coach should Real Madrid make a concrete move for the summer, as exclusively revealed.#RealMadrid have always fascinated him. He is happy at Red Bull and has a strong identification with the Red Bull project, but… pic.twitter.com/TDJ7OAiI84
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) January 15, 2026
Potential Destinations: Real Madrid and Germany
Despite signals that his managerial chapter may be closed, transfer insider Florian Plettenberg has reported that Klopp may reconsider for two specific roles. According to Plettenberg, only the prospect of leading either Real Madrid or the German national team could entice Klopp to take up management once again, provided all conditions are met.
Real Madrid are said to be a major source of fascination for Klopp, who is giving serious consideration to the possibility, should the club – crowned European champions 15 times – make a formal approach this summer. The German national team are also in contention, with attention on their performance in the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Current head coach Julian Nagelsmann has the opportunity to prove himself, following his succession of Hansi Flick in 2023, who became the first Germany manager ever to be dismissed from the role.
Red Bull Commitment and Managerial Speculation
Despite ongoing rumours, the same reports state Klopp remains content and strongly engaged with his responsibilities at Red Bull. Nonetheless, Plettenberg has suggested that speculation linking Klopp to the Real Madrid hot seat is likely to continue.
| Current Role | Potential Management Return For |
|---|---|
| Head of Global Soccer, Red Bull (since January 2025) | Real Madrid or Germany National Team |
Real Madrid Vacancy and Recent Developments
Following Real Madrid’s 3-2 defeat to arch-rivals Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup on Sunday, the club dismissed Xabi Alonso after a turbulent eight-month tenure, which was plagued by claims of difficulties managing high-profile squad members. Youth team coach Alvaro Arbeloa has been installed as interim manager.
Klopp’s name swiftly emerged among the top candidates mooted for the permanent role at the Santiago Bernabéu. However, he has publicly stated that no discussions with Real Madrid have taken place.
