Why Jürgen Klopp is “the right man” for Real Madrid job

Former Bayern Munich manager Felix Magath remains one of soccer’s most respected voices when it comes to coaching and managing star-filled squads. In an interview with Winwin, the 72-year-old German spoke on a range of topics, with the Champions League quarterfinal clash between Bayern and Real Madrid serving as a central theme.

Magath, who is well known in Spain for helping Raúl González rediscover a second peak during his time at Schalke 04, understands what it takes to manage a major Real Madrid figure who was born and developed at the club. With that experience in mind, he pointed to another German coach as his leading candidate for the Madrid job next season.

Klopp seen as ideal fit for Real Madrid

“Klopp would be the right man,” Magath said. “He did outstanding work at Liverpool, and he knows how to deal with highly influential players. He can control that dressing room.”

Magath believes the Real Madrid job demands a very specific profile, especially given the pressure and complexity of managing a squad full of global stars.

In that context, he also offered a more sympathetic view of recent struggles during the Arbeloa coaching period, suggesting the challenges go far beyond any one individual.

“The situation would be difficult for any coach,” he said, referring to Arbeloa’s work in recent months.

Raúl’s development as a coach

Magath spent two seasons working with Raúl at Schalke 04, a period in which the former Real Madrid captain played a key role under the German coach.

Now, Magath has reflected on Raúl’s coaching future with strong confidence.

“I don’t know him as a coach, I knew him as a player, and he was great in every sense,” Magath said. “He understands all the details of football and knows the game extremely well. I am convinced he will become a very good coach.”

Camavinga red card controversy

One of the major talking points from the Champions League quarterfinal was the late red card shown to Eduardo Camavinga in a tightly balanced tie.

Magath did not agree with the decision, but he downplayed its overall impact on the outcome.

“It was not the correct call. It was a very harsh red card. For me, there is no justification for sending the player off,” he said.

“Even so, honestly, it was not the most important factor in the tie. We are talking about two full matches, 180 minutes, not eight or ten. Overall, Bayern were better and deserved to qualify.”

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