MADRID, Spain – Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has reportedly identified former Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp as his number one target to lead the club next season. According to renowned journalist Guillem Balagué, Pérez is determined to secure the German’s signature, viewing him as the only manager capable of handling a squad filled with “world-class egos.”
Klopp, who has been away from the touchline since leaving Anfield and currently serves as the Global Head of Soccer for Red Bull, is living in Mallorca, Spain. Crucially, reports suggest he has been dedicated to learning Spanish, a move many see as a clear preparation for a future stint at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The Pérez “Obsession”
Florentino Pérez has long been an admirer of Klopp’s “Heavy Metal” football and his charismatic leadership. While previous attempts to lure him to Madrid were met with rejection Klopp famously cited his lack of the local language and his commitment to Liverpool the situation has now shifted.
Real Madrid’s board, led by key figure Anas Laghrari, believes that after two years away from management, Klopp is ready for the ultimate challenge. Pérez is reportedly preparing an “ambitious project” that he believes will be impossible for the German to turn down.
Klopp’s Recent Stance
Despite the intensifying rumors, Klopp remains cautious. Speaking last Tuesday, the German was quick to play down the links: “Interest from Real Madrid? That has nothing to do with me and hasn’t sparked anything in me.”
However, those close to the club believe this is a standard tactical response from a man currently under contract with Red Bull.
Plan B: Arteta and Maresca
While Klopp is the priority, Real Madrid is not leaving anything to chance. Should the German decide to stay in his executive role, the club has reportedly shortlisted Mikel Arteta (Arsenal) and Enzo Maresca as high-level alternatives. Both managers are highly regarded for their tactical innovation and ability to develop young talent, making them suitable candidates for the “Post-Ancelotti” era.
Miguel Manjate is a football journalist and editor covering the Premier League, European competitions, and transfer news, with a strong focus on match analysis and data-driven reporting.
