Thiago Alcantara becomes new member of Hansi Flick staff at Barcelona after announcing his retirement

Thiago Alcántara has made a significant comeback at Barcelona, rejoining the club after announcing his retirement and joining Hansi Flick’s coaching staff.

Thiago wasted no time immersing himself in his new role, joining Flick’s squad on the very first day of pre-season. As a former player under Flick at Bayern Munich, Thiago understands the coach’s philosophy and methods. Additionally, his deep connection with Barcelona, having come through the ranks at La Masia and subsequently making 101 appearances for the first team, makes him the ideal candidate to help the German manager settle into his new surroundings.

Flick faces a significant language barrier as he does not speak fluent Spanish or English. Thiago’s fluency in German, English, and Spanish will play a crucial role in easing this transition, acting as an intermediary between Flick and the players, and ensuring effective communication of the new manager’s strategies and instructions.

Barcelona confirmed Thiago’s appointment in an official statement, highlighting his expected participation in the men’s football first team squad for the entire summer and the US tour. Thiago’s return to Barcelona marks the beginning of a new chapter in his football career, and the possibility of a coaching job elsewhere remains to be seen.

Barcelona confirmed Thiago’s appointment in an official statement that read: “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 return to Barcelona demonstrates his commitment to the club, offering valuable insight and experience as he embarks on this new phase of his career.