Jurgen Klopp Wants to Poach Liverpool Star as Links to Real Madrid Job Intensify

Madrid, January 12, 2026 – Speculation is rife that Jurgen Klopp, the former Liverpool manager, is eyeing a sensational return to top-level football at Real Madrid, with reports suggesting he wants to bring a familiar face from Anfield to the Bernabeu.[1]

Current Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso is under intense pressure after a disappointing run. Appointed in May 2025 following Carlo Ancelotti's departure to the Brazil national team, Alonso led Madrid to the Club World Cup semi-finals, only to suffer a heavy defeat against PSG. Recent results have been dire, with Spanish media outlets AS and Marca reporting that Alonso faces a 'decision window' defined by two crucial matches: a Copa del Rey tie against Talavera and a La Liga clash with Sevilla. A late Rodrygo winner against Alaves has bought him time, but failure to win could end his tenure.[2]

Enter Jurgen Klopp, who stepped away from Liverpool in May 2024 after a trophy-laden nine-year spell, winning every major honor except the Europa League. Despite insisting on retirement due to burnout, Klopp's name tops the shortlist should Alonso depart. German journalist Florian Plettenberg has confirmed Klopp as a prime candidate.[2]

The twist? Reports claim Klopp is targeting Fabinho, the former Liverpool midfielder currently at Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. The Brazilian, who left Anfield in 2023 for £40m after winning multiple titles, has expressed excitement about a European return, particularly to La Liga. With his contract entering its final six months, Fabinho – who briefly played for Real Madrid's Castilla in 2012-13 – sees it as a 'special' opportunity, having shared the pitch with stars like Nacho and Varane.[3][4]

While Klopp's links intensify, doubts persist about his willingness to return, given his visible exhaustion at Liverpool's end. Real Madrid's hierarchy may push for a reunion that blends Klopp's gegenpressing with Fabinho's defensive steel.[1][2]

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