Liverpool legend Jurgen Klopp considering management return with struggling club

Jurgen Klopp, the charismatic and trophy-laden manager who etched his name into Liverpool’s rich history books, could be on the brink of a stunning return to management. The German tactician, who stepped away from the dugout in 2024 after nearly a decade at Anfield, is reportedly growing discontented in his new executive role and is now seriously weighing up a dramatic comeback.

Klopp, who is currently serving as Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer, took on the role in early January 2025 following his decision to leave Liverpool at the end of the 2023/24 season. Though it appeared to be the perfect opportunity for the 56-year-old to remain in football while taking a breather from the high-pressure world of management, recent developments suggest the former Borussia Dortmund and Mainz boss may be itching to return to the touchline sooner than expected.

After nearly a year away from active coaching, sources close to Klopp have confirmed that he’s reevaluating his career path. And he’s not just looking at any club. According to Brazilian outlet UOL, Klopp would only consider stepping down from his Red Bull position to take charge of two global footballing powerhouses—Real Madrid or the Brazilian national team.

It’s a surprising yet fitting shortlist for a manager of Klopp’s pedigree. At Liverpool, Klopp achieved almost everything he set out to do. He guided the club to Champions League glory in 2019 and followed it up with a historic Premier League title the next season—their first in 30 years. His impact was so profound that many fans still refer to him as the club’s most transformative figure in modern football.

Although Klopp handed the reins at Liverpool to Arne Slot, who has performed admirably in his debut season with the Reds, his shadow still looms large. Klopp’s departure wasn’t due to failure or controversy—it was fatigue, the kind only time and rest could cure. But now, it seems, that sabbatical may soon end.

Klopp’s name being floated in discussions surrounding Real Madrid is especially intriguing. The Spanish giants have just endured a humiliating Champions League exit at the hands of Arsenal, and their grip on the La Liga title is slipping as arch-rivals Barcelona look set to reclaim domestic supremacy. Despite Carlo Ancelotti’s legendary status, pressure is mounting on the Italian, and club president Florentino Pérez is believed to be assessing long-term alternatives.

And who better to rejuvenate Los Blancos than Klopp? His footballing philosophy—high-pressing, emotional, and electrifying—could be the perfect fit for a club looking to rediscover its dominance both at home and in Europe. Though Xabi Alonso, a former Madrid midfielder, is also being considered after a remarkable season with Bayer Leverkusen, Klopp’s name reportedly continues to linger in executive discussions.

Interestingly, Klopp’s current contract with Red Bull contains a clause that would allow him to leave should the German national team come calling. However, Germany already seems committed to their existing setup, and with the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, the timing may not favor a sudden shift in leadership.

That leaves Brazil and Real Madrid as the only viable options for Klopp—at least in the immediate future. Brazil, who recently parted ways with coach Fernando Diniz, are in the middle of a rebuild and could be lured by the idea of having a European manager with Klopp’s expertise leading them into the Copa América and beyond. The idea of Klopp coaching Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Endrick might be too tantalizing for the Brazilian federation to ignore.

From Klopp’s perspective, managing Brazil would be a unique challenge—one steeped in passion, flair, and immense expectations. Yet his style, personality, and motivational skills could align perfectly with the Brazilian ethos. Unlike his structured systems at Dortmund and Liverpool, coaching Brazil would push him to adapt and evolve in ways he hasn’t before.

That said, Real Madrid still seems the more immediate and logical next destination. With Ancelotti’s future uncertain and the club desperate to reclaim European dominance, appointing Klopp could be a statement of intent. Not only would it reignite their footballing identity, but it would also send shockwaves across the continent.

Supporters around the globe are already buzzing with speculation. Social media has erupted with fans calling for Klopp’s return to the dugout. Liverpool faithful, while still adjusting to life without their beloved coach, would likely feel pride rather than betrayal should he accept an offer from Madrid or Brazil.

This isn’t the first time Klopp has been linked with a move to Madrid. Over the years, various reports suggested that Florentino Pérez admired Klopp’s energy and success at Liverpool. The German, however, always remained loyal to Anfield—until now.

The football world watches with bated breath. If Klopp were to return, it wouldn’t just be a managerial move; it would be a seismic event. His presence in any dressing room instantly elevates expectations and injects belief. For Real Madrid, it could mean ushering in a new dynasty. For Brazil, it could represent a bold pivot toward European-style discipline.

For now, Klopp remains in his Red Bull role. But behind the scenes, the wheels may already be turning. One thing is clear—Jurgen Klopp is not done with football, and the next chapter in his storied career might just be the most fascinating yet.