Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has suggested that “something is not 100% right” at Real Madrid following the shock departure of Xabi Alonso, as speculation continues to surround the German coach’s long-term future.
Speaking to ServusTV, Klopp reacted to Alonso’s decision to leave Real Madrid after just half a season, calling it a worrying sign given the Spaniard’s reputation as one of Europe’s most promising coaching talents. According to Klopp, such an early exit highlights the intense pressure and enormous expectations that come with managing at the Santiago Bernabéu.
“When you see Xabi – an outstanding coaching talent, leaving Real Madrid after only half a year, it shows there is no time anymore and that the expectations at Real are enormous,” Klopp said. “To make such a decision after losing a cup final and hearing rumours for a while… I was surprised, that’s true.”
Alonso’s departure has sparked fresh debate over Real Madrid’s managerial environment, which is often described as one of the most demanding in world football. Despite this, Klopp made it clear that Alonso’s situation does not influence his own career decisions.