Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has publicly expressed his shock at the sudden dismissal of Xabi Alonso from his role as Real Madrid head coach, while simultaneously dismissing speculation linking him to the now-vacant position at the Bernabeu.
Klopp's Immediate Reaction on Air
The dramatic news broke on January 13, 2026, with Alonso's tenure cut short just six months after his appointment. Klopp, working as a pundit for ServusTV On, was asked live on air about the development and its potential implications for his own future.
"About two hours ago the news suddenly broke that Xabi Alonso is no longer the coach of Real Madrid," the host stated, before directly questioning Klopp: "So my question is this: has your phone already started ringing?"
Klopp confirmed his phone had been active, but not with calls from the Spanish capital. "It actually has — though not from Madrid," he clarified. "But yes, there were definitely a few people who felt they had to contact me directly about it."
A Sign of Deeper Issues at Real Madrid?
The German tactician used his platform to analyse the decision, suggesting it highlighted significant pressures and potential instability within the Madrid hierarchy. He pointed to Alonso's proven pedigree, built over two impressive years at Bayer Leverkusen, as evidence the sacking was premature.
"First of all, I think it's another sign that something isn't quite right there at the moment," Klopp asserted. "If Xabi Alonso... is then forced to leave Madrid just six months later, it shows a few things."
He identified two key factors: the modern game's lack of patience and the immense, immediate expectations at Real Madrid. The timing, coming hot on the heels of a Copa del Rey final defeat to Barcelona, was particularly telling for Klopp. "To make a decision like that in the heat of the moment... says a lot," he added, noting that rumours had been circulating for some time.
Klopp Distances Himself from Bernabeu Speculation
Directly addressing the elephant in the room, Klopp was unequivocal in shutting down any talk of him succeeding Alonso. He pre-empted the follow-up question from the host, stating firmly that the news had no personal relevance for him.
"And now – I don't know if that's where your question was going – but this has absolutely nothing to do with me, and it didn't trigger anything for me either," he declared.
His overriding emotion, he insisted, was one of pure surprise. "I was surprised, that's true – genuinely surprised," Klopp concluded, revealing his method of dealing with the flurry of messages he received: "Then a few people messaged me, and I replied with various emojis."
The swift and brutal nature of Alonso's exit has sent shockwaves through European football, raising fresh questions about the long-term planning and stability at one of the world's most prestigious clubs.
