Jurgen Klopp has been given a clear warning about the perils of taking the Real Madrid job, with former Bayern Munich chief executive Oliver Kahn urging the German to steer clear of the Bernabeu. The Spanish giants are expected to make another managerial change this summer after a disappointing campaign, with Alvaro Arbeloa currently in interim charge following the dismissal of Xabi Alonso.
Kahn's Warning
Speaking to Marca, Kahn expressed doubts about whether Klopp would fit at Real Madrid. "I don't know if I'd do that if I were Jurgen Klopp," he said. "Do Real Madrid and Jurgen Klopp fit together? If we analyze it more deeply, Jurgen is one of those who likes to develop, to build." He added: "What's more, he works with a defined system. Real Madrid is something completely different. Real Madrid is a collection of individuals, a group of superstars who categorically refuse to have any concept imposed on them." Kahn cited the struggles of Xabi Alonso, who left Bayer Leverkusen to take over at Madrid but was sacked after just six months, as evidence of the club's unique challenges.
Klopp's Own Thoughts
Klopp himself has previously commented on the Real Madrid job, suggesting it is harder than many realise. After Alonso's sacking, he said: "First of all, I think it's another sign that something isn't quite right there at the moment. If Xabi Alonso, who over the last two years in Leverkusen has shown what an outstanding coaching talent he is, is then forced to leave Madrid just six months later, it shows a few things. On the one hand, it shows that nowadays there's no time anymore. On the other, the expectations at Real Madrid are obviously enormous."
Mourinho Emerges as Alternative
While Klopp remains a long-term target, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez appears to have a preferred option in mind. According to reports, Jose Mourinho is being targeted for a return to the club, despite being under contract at Benfica. The Portuguese manager has previously spent three seasons at Real Madrid, winning La Liga in 2012, and is understood to be open to a reunion. Whether Klopp or Mourinho ends up at the Bernabeu, the next appointment will be crucial for a club that has already made one change this season and is desperate to return to the top of Spanish and European football.
