Mbappe Reportedly Recommends Pochettino Over Klopp for Real Madrid Manager Role
Kylian Mbappe is reportedly advising Real Madrid against hiring Jurgen Klopp and is instead pushing for Mauricio Pochettino to become the club's next manager. This news emerges amid ongoing speculation about the future of current boss Alvaro Arbeloa, whose position appears precarious following a Champions League exit and a significant gap behind Barcelona in La Liga. While Klopp has been frequently linked as Florentino Perez's preferred candidate, internal preferences from key players like Mbappe could influence the final decision.
The Managerial Situation at Real Madrid
The pressure on Alvaro Arbeloa has intensified after a disappointing season. Real Madrid's elimination by Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals was a significant blow, compounded by their league position. Sitting nine points behind Barcelona, the club's leadership is expected to make a change in the summer. The search for a successor has become a major topic, with various names circulating in the media. The process is not just a board decision; influential figures within the squad, such as Mbappe, are reportedly weighing in with their own views on who should take charge.
Mbappe's stance is clear: he does not favor Jurgen Klopp. Despite Klopp's legendary status and success at Liverpool, the French star seems to prefer a different managerial profile. His initial preference was reportedly for Zinedine Zidane, a figure deeply connected to Real Madrid's recent history. However, Zidane's impending move to become the France national team coach after the 2026 World Cup has made that option unavailable. This has led Mbappe to advocate for another former manager he knows well.
Mbappe's Advocacy for Mauricio Pochettino
Having worked with Mauricio Pochettino at Paris Saint-Germain for a year and a half, Mbappe is said to hold positive memories of that period. He is reportedly using his influence to recommend Pochettino to the Real Madrid hierarchy. The striker's argument centers on Pochettino's personal qualities and managerial approach, rather than his recent trophy record. Mbappe is said to value Pochettino's ability to maintain squad harmony and motivation, a trait considered vital in managing top-tier teams with big personalities.
- Dressing Room Management: Mbappe reportedly highlights Pochettino's skill in keeping entire squads satisfied and creating a positive atmosphere, which he views as a critical strength.
- Tactical Knowledge: Despite a lack of recent silverware, Pochettino's experience and tactical understanding are seen as "very interesting" assets by the player.
- Personal Relationship: The existing rapport from their time at PSG provides a foundation of trust and familiarity that Mbappe believes would benefit the club.
Pochettino's current role as head coach of the United States national team presents a complication. He is committed to leading the USA at the 2026 World Cup and is unlikely to leave that position before the tournament. This means any move to Real Madrid would likely be postponed until after the World Cup concludes, potentially creating a timing gap if Madrid seeks an immediate summer appointment.
Key Takeaways
- Real Madrid's managerial search is active, with current coach Alvaro Arbeloa under severe pressure after a underwhelming season.
- While Jurgen Klopp is widely reported as president Florentino Perez's top choice, key player Kylian Mbappe is reportedly advocating against this and for Mauricio Pochettino instead.
- Mbappe's recommendation is based on Pochettino's dressing room management skills, tactical experience, and their positive past working relationship at PSG.
- Zinedine Zidane, Mbappe's initial preferred candidate, is not available as he is set to take over the France national team.
- Pochettino's current commitment to the USA national team until after the 2026 World Cup could be a logistical hurdle for any immediate appointment.
This situation illustrates how player influence can shape major club decisions at the highest level. While the board and president will ultimately decide, the preferences of a star player like Mbappe, who is central to the club's future plans, are likely to be carefully considered. The final choice will balance proven external success, like Klopp's, against internal squad dynamics and player comfort, as highlighted by Mbappe's reported push for Pochettino.
— Editorial Team
