Thiago Alcantara Set to Rejoin Hansi Flick’s Coaching Staff at Barcelona

Barcelona are confident of sealing a deal that will bring Thiago Alcantara back to the club—not as a player this time, but as part of Hansi Flick’s coaching staff. The former La Masia midfielder has already had a brief taste of life under Flick in a non-playing role and could now be set for a more permanent return to Camp Nou.

Thiago initially joined Flick’s team when the German coach took charge of Barcelona earlier this summer. Though it was short-lived, his influence was felt. The 34-year-old played a key part in helping the squad understand Flick’s tactical ideas and transition into his demanding style of play. However, his stay was cut short due to bureaucratic complications. He had to head back to Liverpool, where he maintained residency following his retirement from playing. 

Despite that, there’s been a mutual desire for a reunion. Flick is believed to be eager to get Thiago back by his side, especially with the new season fast approaching. The only hurdle standing in the way has been Barcelona’s financial fair play restrictions, which have slowed down the formal appointment. Now, though, there’s real optimism within the club that the deal will go through soon. Sources say Barcelona are actively working on player departures and wage adjustments to clear enough room on the salary books for Thiago’s return. 

Flick’s role under Flick is expected to revolve around mentoring young players and easing their integration into the coach’s system. Given his strong connection with the club and his familiarity with Flick’s methods from their time together at Bayern Munich, it’s seen as a natural fit. The pair famously won the treble at Bayern in 2020, and that professional bond is now poised to shift to the sidelines at Barcelona. 

Thiago, who made over 100 appearances for Barcelona after coming through the ranks at La Masia, left the club in 2013 for Bayern. However, his time at Liverpool was often disrupted by injuries. He called time on his playing career in 2024 after making just under 100 appearances for the Premier League side. Now, with the paperwork nearly sorted and Flick keen to expand his staff, it looks like Thiago is heading home—to help guide the next generation.