Real Madrid may be flying high, but the coaching debate continues. According to the Spanish newspaper Sport, president Florentino Pérez privately — and partly publicly — admitted that his preferred successor to Carlo Ancelotti was Jürgen Klopp, not Xabi Alonso. Despite leading the league table, Pérez has reportedly expressed concerns about Alonso’s project at the helm: a lack of tactical evolution, limited rotation, low pressing intensity, and little innovation. The 77-year-old president is said to feel vindicated in his belief that Alonso may not have been the ideal choice. 

Red Bull moved faster

The key point, according to Sport: Klopp — the former Liverpool boss — declined Madrid’s approach after accepting a new position as “Global Director of Football” at the Red Bull organization. That decision left Pérez without his top target, and he eventually agreed to appoint Alonso after being persuaded by trusted advisors within the club.

Sporting context

Internal competition: despite strong results, questions remain about style and squad management. Contrasting profiles: Klopp is known for his high-octane, vertical football; Alonso prefers a slower, control-oriented approach. The president’s view (as reported by Sport): a sense that Madrid has not taken the next tactical step, particularly in pressing and unpredictability.

What comes next

Performance and results: if Madrid’s winning streak continues, internal criticism will likely fade. Future opportunities: Klopp’s new role at Red Bull could affect his long-term availability. Club unity: whether Pérez’s inner circle continues to back Alonso or reopens the coaching debate later in the season.