Thiago comes back to Barcelona, joins coaching staff under Hansi Flick

Thiago Alcántara, despite retiring recently, has swiftly integrated into his new role with Barcelona under coach Hansi Flick.

Chirag

July 17, 2024

Thiago Alcantara Back At Barcelona — Instagram @fcbarcelona

Though Thiago retired only a few weeks ago, he quickly embraced his new role by joining Hansi Flick’s squad on the first day of pre-season for a short stint with Barcelona. As a former player under Flick at Bayern Munich, Thiago understands his coaching philosophy and methods. His deep connection with Barcelona, having risen through La Masia and made 101 appearances for the first team, makes him the perfect candidate to help Flick settle into his new environment.

One significant challenge anticipated in Flick’s transition to Barcelona is the language barrier. Flick, who isn’t fluent in Spanish or English, faces communication hurdles. Thiago, fluent in German, English, and Spanish, will play a crucial role in easing this transition. He will act as an intermediary, facilitating effective communication between Flick and the players, ensuring that the new manager’s strategies and instructions are conveyed and understood.

Barcelona confirmed Thiago’s appointment in an official statement: “Having recently called time on his playing career at the age of 33, Thiago Alcántara is set to spend the coming weeks as part of Hansi Flick’s staff in order to train as a coach. The former player is expected to remain with the men’s football first team squad for the entire summer, and therefore, will be on the US tour. The midfielder came through La Masia and he and the new Blaugrana coach formed a close relationship during the single season that both were at Bayern Munich, when they won the treble.”

Thiago’s time at Liverpool was marred by injuries, limiting his impact. Over four seasons, he made 98 appearances but played only one game in his final season due to persistent injuries. After his contract expired on June 30, Thiago decided to retire from professional football.

Thiago’s return to Barcelona marks the beginning of a new chapter in his football career. It remains to be seen if the Spanish star will take up a coaching job elsewhere after this stint with Barcelona.