Thiago Alcantara Secures Permanent Role on Barcelona’s Coaching Staff

Key Takeaways:

• Barcelona have officially appointed Thiago Alcantara as a first-team coach following several weeks spent with Hansi Flick’s staff last year
• The 34-year-old’s return comes after a period in the UK for tax obligations and time to consider his future after retiring from Liverpool
• Thiago will carry out his duties primarily at Barcelona’s training ground, and will not be part of the matchday travelling party for away fixtures

Thiago Alcantara Rejoins Barcelona in Coaching Capacity

Barcelona have announced the addition of Thiago Alcantara to their first-team coaching set-up, confirming that the former midfielder has returned to the club in a permanent role. Alcantara had previously worked alongside Hansi Flick and his team during preseason last year as Flick’s backroom staff settled in at Camp Nou.

Hansi Flick, who took the managerial reins last season, was supported by a backroom group with limited experience in Spanish football, including ex-Bayern Munich goalkeeping coach Toni Tapalovic, assistant Marcus Sorg, and Heiko Westermann – the latter valued for his Spanish language skills gained during a spell at Real Betis. For Flick, integrating Thiago during the early weeks was a strategic move to facilitate his and his staff’s adaptation to Barcelona.

Thiago Alcántara joins training as an official first team coach under Flick

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) September 11, 2025

The Reasons Behind Thiago’s Appointment

After ending his playing career at Liverpool, Thiago returned to the United Kingdom due to tax obligations. He also sought time away from football to reflect on his next steps. Now 34, Thiago has opted for a permanent switch back to Barcelona, influenced by Flick’s eagerness to harness his experience with high-profile dressing rooms, deep understanding of central midfield play, and proven ability to build connections with younger squad members.

The German manager’s desire to reunite with Thiago stems from their successful spell at Bayern Munich and their strong mutual rapport. The pair even spent part of their holidays together this summer on the Costa Brava, a further testament to their excellent relationship.

Role Details and Matchday Arrangements

Thiago will restrict his involvement to the club’s Barcelona base, focusing his efforts on the training ground instead of joining the squad for away trips. His appointment is designed to support both player development and Flick’s integration at the club, with his expertise and familiarity with both Barcelona and Flick’s methods deemed invaluable in stabilising the coaching team.

Coaching Staff and Defensive Options

As part of the evolving technical staff, Flick is also currently expected to partner Eric García and Cubarsí at centre-back against Valencia. Andreas Christensen, who logged every minute with Denmark during the international break, may be given time to rest, while Ronald Araújo’s late return makes his involvement unlikely.