Jurgen Klopp makes feelings clear on taking Real Madrid job after Alonso axe | Football | Sport

Jurgen Klopp has swiftly ruled himself out of the vacant Real Madrid managerial position after being questioned about Xabi Alonso’s exit during a live television appearance. The former Liverpool boss has previously been touted for the prestigious role at the Bernabeu, but has appeared to make clear his managerial days are behind him after taking up a position as head of global soccer with Red Bull following his Anfield departure at the conclusion of the 2023-24 campaign.

Monday evening brought the bombshell announcement that Real Madrid had dismissed Alonso, who had only joined the club in June. Alvaro Arbeloa has subsequently taken temporary charge of the Spanish powerhouse, yet Klopp, appearing as a pundit for ServusTV On, faced persistent questioning about the Los Blancos vacancy during the live broadcast.

When Klopp was asked whether his phone had been buzzing following the news, the 58-year-old confessed: «It actually has (been ringing) – though not from Madrid. But yes, there were definitely a few people who felt they had to contact me directly about it!

«First of all, I think it’s another sign that something isn’t quite right there at the moment. If Xabi Alonso, who over the last two years in Leverkusen has shown what an outstanding coaching talent he is – and I think at his age and with the number of jobs he’s had, you can say that – is then forced to leave Madrid just six months later, it shows a few things.

«On the one hand, it shows that nowadays there’s no time anymore. On the other, the expectations at Real Madrid are obviously enormous. To make a decision like that in the heat of the moment, after losing a cup final to Barcelona yesterday, says a lot.»

Klopp, who was briefly rumoured for a surprise Liverpool comeback earlier this season amid a difficult spell for his successor Arne Slot, added: «I think we’d already been hearing rumours for a while.

«And now – I don’t know if that’s where your question was going – but this has absolutely nothing to do with me, and it didn’t trigger anything for me either, which would probably have been the follow-up question.

«I was surprised, that’s true – genuinely surprised. Then a few people messaged me, and I replied with various emojis.»

Alonso’s tenure at the helm lasted a mere seven months, despite only six losses in 34 matches. However, his stint was marred by whispers of backstage unrest.

Less than a day after the announcement of his dismissal, Alonso took to social media to comment on his departure, stating: «This chapter of my career has come to an end, and it hasn’t gone as we would have liked.

«Coaching Real Madrid has been both an honour and a responsibility. I thank the club, the players, and above all, the fans and Madrid fans for their trust and support. I leave with respect, gratitude, and pride that I did my best.»