Jurgen Klopp is rumored to be linked with Real Madrid manager job (Image: Getty Images)
Enzo Maresca and Jurgen Klopp have emerged as the frontrunners for Real Madrid’s managerial vacancy following the departure of Xabi Alonso earlier this week, just seven-and-a-half months into his reign at the Bernabéu. Despite leading Bayer Leverkusen to three trophies in 2024, Alonso’s time in the Spanish capital turned out to be rather unproductive, with Los Blancos failing to win any trophies under his management. Alvaro Arbeloa has taken on the role of interim manager while Real Madrid search for a permanent successor.
Leadership may want to move quickly to appoint someone with more experience to the position. Arbeloa oversaw a disastrous 3-2 Copa del Rey defeat to Segunda División side Albacete on Wednesday, which Spanish media described as a “complete fiasco”.
Sky Sports have reported that the board is conducting internal deliberations on Klopp, who enjoyed extraordinary success with both Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool, and that he is being considered for a permanent position at La Liga’s powerhouse club.
However, Klopp is currently Red Bull’s global sports director and is enthusiastic about the role, so it may be difficult to lure the 58-year-old back into management.
Klopp is said to be considering returning to manage Real Madrid or the German national team, but only if the conditions are suitable. There are currently no formal negotiations between the Spanish giants and Klopp.
Meanwhile, other reports claim that Maresca is on the radar of Real Madrid after leaving Chelsea earlier this year and subsequently appointing Liam Rosenior.
The Italian enjoyed a trophy-laden spell at Stamford Bridge, leading the Blues to the European Conference League title in May, followed by the Club World Cup in the summer.
However, following a series of inconsistent performances, Chelsea announced on New Year’s Day that they had mutually decided to part ways with the 45-year-old.
“Chelsea Football Club and head coach Enzo Maresca have parted ways,” the club said in an official statement.
Enzo Maresca also emerges as a potential candidate for Los Blancos (Image: Darren Walsh, Chelsea FC, via Getty Images)
“During his time at the club, Enzo led the team to success in the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup. These achievements are an important part of the club’s recent history and we are grateful for his contribution to the club.”
“Enzo and the club believe that the changes will give the team the best chance of getting the season back on track, as important objectives remain across four competitions, including qualification for the Champions League. We wish Enzo all the best for the future.”
Maresca also shared a heartfelt message of her own on social media, saying:
“My journey with Chelsea began in the Conference League qualifying rounds and I leave with the peace of mind of leaving a prestigious club like Chelsea where I belong.
“I would like to thank all Chelsea fans for their support over the last 18 months. This support was essential in helping us qualify for the Champions League, win the Conference League and win the Club World Cup. Victory is always in our hearts!”
“A special thank you to all the players who have accompanied me on this amazing journey. I wish everyone who has shared every moment with me the best of luck in the second half of the season and beyond. Thank you, Chelsea, to me and my family.”
Since leaving Stamford Bridge, Maresca has been linked with more than Real Madrid. The experienced tactician has also emerged as a candidate for the Manchester United position following Ruben Amorim’s sacking earlier this month.
However, with Michael Carrick appointed as caretaker manager for the remainder of the season, it seems unlikely that United will pursue Amorim’s permanent successor until the summer transfer window.
