Jurgen Klopp has distanced himself from speculation linking him to the Real Madrid job following Xabi Alonso's abrupt departure as manager. The former Liverpool boss, now head of global soccer at Red Bull, stated he has received no calls from the Spanish club. Meanwhile, reserve team coach Alvaro Arbeloa steps in for his first match in charge against Albacete in the Copa del Rey.
Jurgen Klopp addressed rumors about the Real Madrid vacancy during an interview on Austrian broadcaster Servus TV. The 2024 Liverpool departure has kept him out of management, but Alonso's exit after less than eight months has fueled links. "The rumours have been circulating for some time now. And I know exactly what your question is getting at, but it has nothing to do with me," Klopp said. He added with a smile, "It has actually rung, but not from Madrid," emphasizing the situation has not affected him.
Klopp expressed sympathy for Alonso, calling him a highly talented coach whose quick unraveling points to deeper issues at Real Madrid. "It is another sign that something isn’t working perfectly there," he noted, highlighting the enormous demands and lack of time for coaches. He was surprised by the speed, citing early reports of tension with the squad and the challenge of succeeding Carlo Ancelotti's specific style. Despite the setback, Klopp backed Alonso's future success elsewhere and downplayed an immediate Liverpool return, predicting a reshuffled managerial market in the summer.
Alonso's dismissal came less than 24 hours after Real Madrid's Spanish Super Cup final defeat to Barcelona. Alvaro Arbeloa, a former Madrid full-back from 2001-2005 and 2009-2016, now takes interim charge for the Copa del Rey last-16 clash at second-tier Albacete on Wednesday. "What I discussed with Xabi will stay between us," Arbeloa said, adding he loves Alonso and is excited for his first match with an extraordinary squad.
Albacete, a point above relegation in the second tier, advanced by knocking out Celta Vigo on penalties. Their manager, Alberto Gonzalez, called the change a surprise but focused on their own game plan amid added uncertainty. Real Madrid, with 20 Copa del Rey titles, are favorites despite recent defensive lapses, including conceding late in the previous round. Kick-off is at 20:00 BST.
