Jurgen Klopp Real Madrid stance emerges after Xabi Alonso sack reaction delivered

Jurgen Klopp's Real Madrid Stance Emerges After Xabi Alonso Sack Reaction Delivered

Jürgen Klopp has firmly distanced himself from speculation linking him to the Real Madrid job following Xabi Alonso's shock sacking on January 12, 2026, after a 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.[3] The former Liverpool manager, speaking to Austrian channel Servus TV, laughed off rumors that his phone was ringing from the Spanish giants, insisting, "It has actually rung, but not from Madrid," and that the news "hasn't affected him at all."[3]

Alonso's abrupt exit after less than eight months in charge—marked by 24 wins, 6 losses, and 4 draws in 34 matches—came amid dressing room tensions and inconsistent results, despite Real Madrid sitting second in La Liga and advancing in the Champions League.[1][4] The club quickly appointed Álvaro Arbeloa, coach of their reserves, as replacement.[1][4] Key issues included Alonso's handling of Vinícius Júnior, with whom he had a strained relationship after substitutions and benchings, and a poor run of just two wins in eight games before Christmas.[4]

Klopp expressed surprise at the timing, calling it a "big surprise" and highlighting Madrid's enormous demands and lack of patience for coaches.[3] He praised Alonso as a "very talented coach" who struggled succeeding Carlo Ancelotti's legendary tenure, noting early rumors of squad discord.[3] "This shows... that we [coaches] no longer have any time," Klopp said, adding he felt sorry for his compatriot and confident in his future success.[3]

Players reacted mixedly: Kylian Mbappé posted a heartfelt Instagram tribute, thanking Alonso for confidence and clear ideas, while Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham stayed silent.[4] Alonso himself expressed regret, saying "I did my best."[2] Despite the upheaval, Madrid trail Barcelona by four points in La Liga and remain competitive in Europe.[1][4]

Klopp dismissed any Liverpool return for Alonso, predicting he wouldn't jump straight into another role.[3] The saga underscores Real Madrid's ruthless ambition as they reset mid-season.

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