Thiago Alcantara returns to Barcelona

Thiago Alcantara, 34, is set to return to Barcelona. The former Blaugrana player, who was with the club from 2009 to 2013, will join Hansi Flick's, 60, technical staff.

Thiago announced his retirement from professional football in the summer of 2024, coinciding with the expiration of his Liverpool contract. Just days later, the former Spanish midfielder was brought in by Hansi Flick to be part of his Barcelona staff during a pre-season tour in the USA.

However, once that tour concluded, Thiago departed from the role. The primary reason he wasn't offered a permanent contract was reportedly due to the well-documented financial struggles that have plagued the Blaugrana for several years.

Nevertheless, it appears both parties have finally reached an agreement. The former midfielder will resume his duties at the club starting next week, once again joining Hansi Flick's team, as reported by Fabrizio Romano.

During his playing spell at Camp Nou, Thiago made exactly 100 appearances across all competitions, scoring 11 goals and providing 19 assists. He also lifted 10 trophies with Barcelona, including a Champions League title (2010/2011) and four La Liga titles.

After leaving the Catalan club, the Spaniard went on to play for Bayern Munich (2013-2020) and Liverpool (2020-2024), securing significant trophies in both Germany and England.

In a Bayern Munich shirt, Thiago won a Champions League (2019/2020), seven Bundesliga titles, four DFB-Pokals, two DFL-Supercups, and a FIFA Club World Cup.

His trophy cabinet was further enhanced during his time with the "Reds," where he claimed an FA Cup, a League Cup, and an FA Community Shield.