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Kylian Mbappé Made His Feelings Clear on Jürgen Klopp as Real Madrid Makes Plan
In a surprising turn amid Real Madrid's managerial turmoil, Kylian Mbappé has reportedly made his feelings clear about Jürgen Klopp, influencing the club's contingency plans for the 2026-27 season. Following Xabi Alonso's dismissal after a disappointing Spanish Super Cup final loss to Barcelona, Mbappé skipped new interim coach Álvaro Arbeloa's first training session at Valdebebas, ahead of the Copa del Rey opener against Albacete.[1]
Sources attribute Mbappé's absence to fitness management, citing knee discomfort that limited him to a substitute role in the Super Cup final. Despite his impressive record under Alonso—29 goals and 5 assists in 25 games—internal frictions reportedly surfaced. Mbappé posted a social media tribute thanking Alonso for his trust, but controversy erupted over his gesture during the post-match guard of honor for Barcelona, drawing criticism and comments from Barcelona president Joan Laporta on sportsmanship.[1]
Enter Jürgen Klopp, whose name has surfaced in Real Madrid's planning. As Global Head of Soccer at Red Bull, Klopp delivered a bold response to reports of Madrid's interest ahead of 2026-27. He voiced strong support for the dismissed Alonso while critiquing Madrid's hasty decision, praising the 44-year-old's talent. This stance aligns with speculation of Klopp's "dream Real Madrid XI," featuring Mbappé as the starting No. 9 alongside two new signings and a tactical overhaul.[2][3]
Mbappé's clear preference for Klopp's high-pressing style—evident from his stellar output and public nods to Liverpool's former boss—has reportedly pushed Madrid to accelerate outreach. Arbeloa's pragmatic approach offers short-term stability, but with a grueling schedule looming, every gesture is scrutinized. Madrid's hierarchy now weighs Mbappé's influence against Klopp's availability, signaling a delicate transition where the French superstar's voice shapes the club's future direction.[1][2]
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