Real Madrid want Klopp or Pochettino to take the reins

Real Madrid want Jurgen Klopp or Mauricio Pochettino to take the reins should the club part ways with Alvaro Arbeloa, according to the Daily Mail.

Pressure is mounting at the Santiago Bernabeu after a bruising week. A Champions League exit at the hands of Bayern Munich has already ended hopes of European glory.

Los Blancos are nine points behind Barcelona in La Liga, leaving their domestic ambitions hanging by a thread.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is a long-time admirer of both Klopp and Pochettino.

Klopp, who stepped down from Liverpool at the end of the 2023/24 season, is currently working in a senior role within the Red Bull football structure.

Meanwhile, Pochettino is preparing to lead the United States into this summer’s World Cup, but could become available after.

There are question marks over Klopp’s willingness to return to the dugout so soon.

The German tactician walked away from Anfield citing the intensity of elite management. Still, the lure of Real Madrid and the chance to shape another era-defining side may prove irresistible.

Pochettino is a solid alternative. His strong relationship with Kylian Mbappe from their time at Paris Saint-Germain could be a major factor.

Besides, his track record of developing elite talent would appeal in a squad featuring the likes of Francisco Mastantuono and Arder Guler.

But if Madrid want a transformative figure, Klopp stands out. His ability to build identity, unify dressing rooms and deliver major honours at the highest level eclipses Pochettino’s resume.

He is a catalyst, and at a club in need of renewed direction, Klopp looks the perfect man to turn a collection of stars into a true team once again.

It remains to be seen if they can get him to step back into the coaching role this summer. He has constantly rubbished links to Los Blancos. But he should be their number one target.