Thiago Alcântara has returned to Barcelona to take up a role within Hansi Flick’s backroom staff, with the former midfielder set for a second spell working at the club’s training base.
The 34-year-old briefly collaborated with the Catalan side last year but was forced to cut short his stay due to bureaucratic issues that required him to return to England. This time, however, Thiago’s involvement is expected to be far more substantial and long-term, as Flick looks to draw on his experience to guide the next generation.
Focus on midfield development
According to Mundo Deportivo, Thiago’s work will primarily focus on Barcelona’s midfielders and academy graduates at the Ciutat Esportiva. He is expected to spend considerable time with returning prospect Marc Bernal, who is close to making a comeback after a year on the sidelines with a serious injury.
Last season, Thiago worked closely with Barça Atlètic midfielder Marc Casado, and a similar mentorship role is anticipated this time around. His reputation for technical precision and tactical intelligence should provide a natural complement to Flick’s coaching setup, especially in a squad heavily reliant on midfield talent.
Support role, not matchday duties
While Thiago’s expertise will be welcomed behind the scenes, he is not expected to feature in Flick’s official matchday staff. He will not travel with the first team for games, with his work confined to daily sessions at the training ground. His remit is seen as developmental rather than tactical, helping to smooth the transition for younger players stepping into senior football.
Thiago’s return to Barcelona is an investment in the team’s future as well as a tribute to its legendary past. A La Masia graduate, he made over 100 appearances for the club between 2009 and 2013 before going on to win multiple league titles and a Champions League with Bayern Munich, as well as a Premier League and FA Cup with Liverpool.
Quiet return already underway
Although Barcelona have yet to officially announce Thiago’s role, he has already been spotted back at the Ciutat Esportiva this week, suggesting work has quietly begun. His return further highlights Flick’s intent to build a coaching structure rooted in technical excellence and continuity with Barça’s traditional playing style.
For the club’s young midfielders, few mentors could be better suited than one who embodied the elegance and vision that Barcelona still aspires to today.
