Is Jurgen Klopp about to make a stunning return to the dugout—this time in the white of Real Madrid?
The former Liverpool manager is reportedly ready to negotiate with the Spanish giants, as current boss Carlo Ancelotti prepares for an early exit. According to UOL Esporte, Klopp is growing “unhappy” in his current role as Red Bull’s Global Head of Football and could be back on the sidelines by July.
With Ancelotti expected to leave following the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona on April 26, Real Madrid are said to be eyeing Klopp as a top candidate. Sky Sports reports that Ancelotti won’t stay on for the final stretch of the La Liga season, sparking urgency around his replacement.
Speaking candidly after Madrid’s Champions League elimination at the hands of Arsenal, Ancelotti admitted, “Maybe the club decides to replace me… That could be tomorrow, 10 days, one month or in one year.”
Klopp, who won the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup with Liverpool, has long been admired by Madrid president Florentino Perez. Sources say the club is preparing to go “all out” to land the charismatic German tactician.
Interestingly, Klopp’s contract with Red Bull reportedly includes a clause allowing him to leave if approached by the German national team—but a Madrid offer could test his loyalty even sooner.
Though Xabi Alonso remains the bookmakers’ favorite to succeed Ancelotti, Klopp has jumped into contention, currently ranked third at 11/2 odds.
A move to Madrid could also see Klopp reunited with former Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is rumored to have already agreed personal terms with Los Blancos.
