Barcelona strengthen coaching staff with addition of former midfielder | OneFootball

Barcelona may not have made many star signings in the summer transfer window, but they have made a big-name addition to their coaching staff shortly after it. Former midfielder Thiago Alcantara spent some time with the Blaugrana at the beginning of Hansi Flick’s tenure, and it appears he will be returning.

The 34-year-old retired from football last summer after leaving Liverpool on a free, following an injury-wrought few seasons. With Flick recently installed at Barcelona, and well-acquainted with Flick from their time together at Bayern Munich, Thiago was drafted in to help the adaptation process for the German manager. His familiarity with the club he came through at, combined with the ability to communicate in German, English and Spanish made him a useful addition, with local media speaking highly of his impact.

Thiago’s forced exit from Barcelona

However on the eve of Flick’s first game, it was announced by the club that Thiago would be ending his association after a few short weeks. The reasoning provided was that Thiago was keen to get his own coaching education, but was also required to reside in England for the remainder of 2024 in order to avoid tax issues. He did not return once that period was completed in the second half of last season.

Image via FC Barcelona

Barcelona to bring back Thiago

According to Diario AS, amongst other sources, Thiago is now set to return to Flick’s coaching staff. They highlight his role in Barcelona’s fast start last season, and note that Flick has blind faith in the former Liverpool star. They also note that Flick and Thiago’s family spent several days together this summer on holiday on the Costa Brava, an indicator of their close relationship.

At the time, youth coach Arnau Blanco stepped into his shoes as a language aid, but Blanco is now integrated as part of the staff, and there is no indication he will depart.