Fabrizio Romano: Former Liverpool Midfielder Joins Barcelona | OneFootball

Thiago Alcantara Begins Coaching Career After Liverpool Retirement

Romano Confirms Barcelona Move

Thiago Alcantara has embarked on the next stage of his football journey, stepping into coaching after calling time on a career defined by elegance but hampered by injuries. Fabrizio Romano confirmed that the former Liverpool midfielder will return to Barcelona, joining Hansi Flick’s coaching staff.

Romano explained: “Thiago Alcantara, former Barca, Bayern Munich, Liverpool midfielder is set to rejoin Barcelona in the staff of Hansi Flick. Everything is agreed, verbal agreement is done, contracts are being prepared.” The move underlines both Thiago’s ambition and Flick’s trust, with Romano adding that Thiago “strongly wanted this opportunity to learn from Hansi Flick” and that the German coach “strongly wanted Thiago again with him because Thiago already was part of the staff for a few months last year.”

Transition Into Coaching

Thiago had already sampled life on the touchline after his retirement at the end of the 2023/24 season. He initially joined Flick’s backroom team on a short-term basis, offering guidance and support at Barcelona. However, tax complications following his Liverpool exit meant he needed to remain in Merseyside, delaying a permanent switch to Catalonia.

That situation has now been resolved, clearing the way for the 34-year-old to take up his role once again. For Barcelona, the appointment strengthens Flick’s coaching group, while for Thiago, it provides invaluable experience as he looks to build a career beyond playing.

Memories of Liverpool Years

At Liverpool, Thiago’s four years were a mixture of brilliance and frustration. He managed just 98 appearances, with persistent injuries robbing supporters of the chance to see him at his best on a consistent basis. When fit, his passing, vision and intelligence transformed games, bringing a touch of class to Jürgen Klopp’s midfield.

Though his time at Anfield was not without disappointment, moments of genius ensured he remained a fan favourite. Many still remember his control of tempo and ability to dictate play, qualities that may now serve him well as a coach.

Photo: IMAGO

Potential for Future Anfield Return

The move to Barcelona naturally raises questions about Thiago’s long-term coaching ambitions. Romano described him as a “football man”, someone who lives and breathes the sport. That reputation, coupled with his tactical understanding, will inevitably lead Liverpool fans to wonder if he might one day return to Anfield in a coaching capacity.

For now, his focus is firmly on Barcelona, where working alongside Flick offers the chance to develop within a top-level environment. Yet Liverpool supporters, still appreciative of his contribution in red, will quietly hope that his journey eventually leads him back to Merseyside in a different role.

Thiago’s career as a player may have ended earlier than many hoped, but his transition into coaching represents an exciting new chapter. Whether in Barcelona, Liverpool or beyond, his influence on the game looks set to continue.