Barcelona Set to Announce Thiago Alcântara’s Return as Part of Hansi Flick’s Coaching Staff

Former midfield maestro expected to rejoin the club in a technical role for the 2025–2026 season.
FC Barcelona is on the verge of confirming the return of Thiago Alcântara this time not as a player, but as a key member of Hansi Flick’s backroom staff. According to journalist Moisés Llorens and reports from Mundo Deportivo, the 34-year-old former midfielder is expected to officially join Flick’s coaching team ahead of the 2025–26 campaign.
Thiago, who recently retired from professional football in August 2024, had already worked informally alongside Flick during training sessions last season. The German manager is reportedly enthusiastic about integrating him more formally into the technical setup, valuing his tactical insight and connection to Barcelona’s footballing DNA.
Homegrown Talent Returns in a New Role
Thiago’s deep roots at Barcelona where he was developed in La Masia and later broke into the first team make him a natural fit to contribute off the pitch. His return aligns with the club’s ongoing emphasis on restoring its identity through former players who understand the culture and playing philosophy.
Club sources suggest that his presence during preseason could have a significant impact, particularly in helping younger players adapt to Flick’s tactical systems.
Successful Career Across Europe
Although born to Brazilian parents, Thiago never played professionally in Brazil. He made his name at Barcelona before transferring to Bayern Munich in 2013, where he experienced the most decorated stretch of his career. With the German giants, he won seven Bundesliga titles and lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy in 2020.
Later that year, Thiago joined Liverpool and added the Premier League title to his already impressive resume. Known for his technical brilliance and vision, he was widely regarded as one of the most elegant midfielders of his generation.
An Impressive Trophy Cabinet
Across his club career, Thiago Alcântara accumulated a host of major honors:
- Barcelona: 4× La Liga, 1× UEFA Champions League, 1× FIFA Club World Cup
- Bayern Munich: 7× Bundesliga, 1× UEFA Champions League, 1× FIFA Club World Cup
- Liverpool: 1× Premier League (2020)
Barcelona believes his elite-level experience, combined with his history at the club, positions him as a valuable addition to the new era under Flick.