Thiago Alcántara has officially returned to FC Barcelona as an assistant coach under Hansi Flick, beginning work on September 11, 2025, after retiring from professional football last year.
Barcelona confirmed the move in a statement, noting that Thiago has joined the first-team staff at the Ciutat Esportiva training centre. The 34-year-old, a La Masia graduate, has reunited with Flick, his former manager at Bayern Munich.
Thiago has tactical knowledge and experience of more than a decade at the elite level. He won major honours with Barcelona, Bayern, and Liverpool, before retiring in July 2024 due to injuries.
A career across europe
The midfielder made 101 senior appearances for Barcelona between 2009 and 2013. He then moved to Bayern Munich, where he featured in over 200 games and won the 2020 treble under Flick.
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At Liverpool, Thiago added nearly 100 appearances from 2020 to 2024, though recurring injuries limited his final seasons. He also lifted the League Cup in 2022.
Role and expectations
Barcelona said Thiago will assist with tactical planning, training sessions, and player mentoring. His first assignment is to help prepare the squad for the 2025–26 La Liga campaign.
Spanish media reported that salary cap restrictions delayed his initial appointment in 2024. He briefly returned to Liverpool to resolve residency requirements before completing the switch this week.
Thiago remains involved with CE L’Hospitalet, a Catalan third-division side, where he serves on the board alongside former teammate Jordi Alba.
Reaction and significance
Supporters have described the appointment as a symbolic “full circle” moment. Barcelona officials emphasised that his experience could sharpen midfield development and support younger players.
Barcelona head into the new season as reigning La Liga champions. The club hopes Thiago’s insights, especially in pressing and possession systems, will strengthen their pursuit of domestic and European success.
