Jose Mourinho has emphatically ruled out a sensational return to Real Madrid, as speculation continues to swirl around Jurgen Klopp potentially taking the reins. Xabi Alonso was shown the door after 34 matches following their Supercopa loss to Barcelona this week.

The 62-year-old is back managing in Portugal and in charge of Benfica, who sit third in the table. Mourinho returned to his homeland after exiting Fenerbahce but he won't be making a comeback to Los Blancos.

It comes as speculation mounts surrounding Klopp, who could be tempted back into management to lead the Spanish heavyweights after ex-Liverpool star Alonso was relieved of his duties and replaced by another former Anfield player, Alvaro Arbeloa. Mourinho declared: "Don't count on me for soap operas. There are good soap operas, but they're very long. You miss one or two episodes and then you lose track. Don't count on me, because I don't watch soap operas."

Former Reds manager Klopp has been absent from the touchline since departing Anfield in 2024. He recently marked a year in his current role at Red Bull as Head of Global Soccer, where he shapes their strategic vision, scouting operations, and the development of coaches and players

Alonso was among the candidates considered to succeed Klopp before Arne Slot was ultimately appointed, but the Spaniard chose to remain at Leverkusen. Carlo Ancelotti's successor arrived at the Bernabeu last summer, only to see his spell in charge cut short. Addressing his departure, Alonso said: "This professional stage is over, and it didn't go as we would have liked.

"Coaching Real Madrid has been an honor and a responsibility. I thank the club, the players and above all the fans and Madrid fans for their trust and support. I leave with respect, gratitude, and pride that I did my best."

Meanwhile, Klopp's name continues to surface in managerial speculation despite his current position within Red Bull's senior structure following his departure from Anfield. Whispers of a sensational Merseyside homecoming emerged when Arne Slot faced mounting scrutiny during Liverpool's difficult start to the campaign.

Speaking on the Diary of a CEO podcast in October, Klopp fuelled speculation about a potential return, the German said: "I said I will never coach a different team in England so that means, if [I did return], then it's Liverpool. So, yeah, theoretically it is possible."