Jose Mourinho has strongly ruled out a sensational return to Real Madrid amid speculation over Jurgen Klopp’s potential appointment as manager. Xabi Alonso was shown the door for the first time in 34 games this week after losing to Barcelona in the Supercopa.
The 62-year-old is back in charge of Portugal, taking charge of Benfica, who are third in the table. Mourinho returned to his home country after leaving Fenerbahce, but is not expected to return to Los Blancos.
It comes amid heightened speculation over Klopp’s role as manager after former Liverpool star Alonso was relieved of his duties and replaced by fellow former Anfield player Alvaro Arbeloa. Mourinho declared: “Don’t count on me when it comes to melodramas. There are good melodramas, but they’re very long. If you miss an episode or two, you’re lost. I don’t watch melodramas, so don’t count on me.”
Former Reds manager Klopp has not been on the touchline since leaving Anfield in 2024. He recently completed a year in his current role as Head of Global Soccer at Red Bull, where he develops the team’s strategic vision, scouting operations and coach and player development.
Alonso was also one of Klopp’s potential successors before Arne Slott was finally appointed, but the Spaniard opted to remain at Leverkusen. Carlo Ancelotti’s replacement arrived at the Bernabéu last summer, but his spell was cut short. Upon his departure, Alonso said: “This professional career is over, but it didn’t go the way we had hoped.
“It is both an honor and a responsibility to coach Real Madrid. I would like to thank the club, the players and above all the fans and Madrid fans for their trust and support. I leave with respect, gratitude and the pride of having given my best.”
Meanwhile, Klopp’s name continues to surface in managerial speculation despite his current position within Red Bull’s senior structure following his departure from Anfield. Rumors of a sensational return to Merseyside emerged as Arne Slott came under scrutiny during Liverpool’s difficult start to the season.
Klopp fueled speculation about a possible return when he appeared on the CEO’s Diary podcast in October, saying: “I said I would never coach another team in England, so it would be Liverpool[if I were to come back]. So, yeah, theoretically it’s possible.”
