Thiago Alcantara joins Barcelona coaching staff after Liverpool retirement
Liverpool fans witnessed glimpses of elegance in midfield from Thiago Alcantara during his four seasons at Anfield, but frequent injuries prevented him from truly reaching his peak. Now, the former Spain international is turning to coaching, with Fabrizio Romano confirming he will join Barcelona as part of Hansi Flick’s backroom team.
Romano shared on his YouTube channel:
“Thiago Alcantara – the former Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Liverpool midfielder – is set to return to Barça as a member of Hansi Flick’s coaching staff. A verbal agreement is in place, and contracts are being finalized.”
He added that Thiago was eager for the chance to work under Flick, and that the German coach was equally keen to reunite with the player, who briefly worked with his staff last year.
After hanging up his boots at the end of the 2023/24 season, the former No.6 quickly transitioned into coaching, initially joining Flick’s team on a short-term basis. Since retiring, Thiago had remained in Merseyside due to tax-related issues following the termination of his Liverpool contract, but those matters have now been resolved, clearing the way for his return to Catalonia.
With 98 appearances and flashes of brilliance despite injury setbacks, Thiago left Liverpool with a reputation as a thoughtful, intelligent football mind. Romano even described him as a true “football man.”
Given his understanding of the game, some fans may wonder if a future coaching role at Anfield could be on the cards. While Liverpool have already revamped their staff under Arne Slot—bringing in Giovanni van Bronckhorst—Thiago’s new journey alongside Flick could pave the way for a future reunion.
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