Kroos Set for Madrid Return as Klopp's Assistant, with Managerial Deal Already Agreed

Real Madrid appear to be plotting a significant overhaul of their coaching structure, according to Spanish media reports that have emerged over the past 24 hours. The plan reportedly involves bringing Toni Kroos back to the club in a structural capacity, working alongside an incoming manager.

Journalist Francois Gallardo, who boasts over 48,000 followers on X, has now laid out what he claims is Madrid's blueprint: Kroos would assume the role of assistant coach, operating under Jurgen Klopp as head coach. Gallardo further insisted that the arrangement with Klopp has been settled since December 2025, with the transition planned for the forthcoming summer window.

Kroos, the midfield virtuoso who departed Madrid in 2024 after a glittering decade at the club, would be making a return to the Bernabéu. During his spell from 2014 onwards, the former Germany international collected four LaLiga titles, one Copa del Rey, and five Champions League medals—a trophy haul that underscores his legendary status in the Spanish capital.

The German midfielder announced his retirement from playing in 2024, but AS reported on April 12 that Madrid are actively considering his reintegration into the club's infrastructure rather than a playing comeback. The publication noted that figures at Valdebebas are aligned on the concept of bringing him back, with suggestions that his presence could prove transformative for the club's future direction.

"The idea is not a return to playing – although he remains in excellent shape – but rather something more structural," AS reported, acknowledging that his involvement would nonetheless register with current manager Alvaro Arbeloa and his former teammates.

Gallardo's announcement came via a post on social media, stating: "Real Madrid's plan is for Toni Kroos to be the assistant coach of Real Madrid and Jürgen Klopp the head coach. Remember the deal with Jurgen Klopp is DONE since December 2025. The idea is for everything to happen this summer."

Yet there remains a significant caveat to these claims. Klopp has consistently and emphatically denied any approach from Madrid. Speaking at a Magenta TV press conference on March 23, when pressed on the speculation, he responded with characteristic candour: "Has Real Madrid ever called me? Not once, not a single time in my managerial career."

He added with a touch of humour: "I'll take over at Atlético Madrid as well, preferably at the same time. Sorry, Madrid, you'll have to ring first!"

On the prospect of managing Germany's national team, Klopp was equally dismissive, stating there were "absolutely no plans in that regard."