Report: Multilingual Thiago To Land A Coaching Role At Barcelona | OneFootball

Barcelona’s Strategic Search for a Multilingual Liaison to Support Hansi Flick

Integrating Experience and Language Skills in the Barça Dressing Room

Barcelona is actively seeking to strengthen its coaching staff by adding a unique profile to support head coach Hansi Flick. The ideal candidate, according to AS, technical director Deco and advisor Bojan, would be an ex-player nearing the end of his career who is fluent in both German and Spanish. This role aims to enhance communication and cohesion within the squad, addressing Flick’s preference for direct and effective dialogue with his players.

Potential Candidates: Thiago Alcântara, Marc Bartra, and Javi Martínez

The first name on Barcelona’s list is Thiago Alcântara. The midfielder, who spent seven successful years at Bayern Munich (2013-2020) and played under Flick, has a deep understanding of both German football culture and language. Despite his contract with Liverpool ending on June 30, there is a sense of pessimism about securing his services. Thiago, at 33, still has a few years left in his playing career, making his transition to a backroom role somewhat challenging.

Javi Martínez, now 35 and playing in Qatar, is another candidate. Martínez also boasts a strong connection to German football, having spent nine years at Bayern Munich (2012-2021). Although he is closer to retirement than Thiago, he lacks direct experience with Barcelona. This could be a minor hindrance but not a disqualifying factor.

Marc Bartra, a product of La Masia, spent two years at Borussia Dortmund. His grasp of German is less robust compared to Thiago and Martínez, but his familiarity with Barcelona’s culture makes him a viable option.

The Role of a Multilingual Liaison in Modern Football

The importance of having a multilingual liaison in the dressing room cannot be overstated. This individual would serve as a bridge between Flick and the players, ensuring that the coach’s instructions and philosophy are clearly communicated and understood. This role is particularly crucial in a diverse squad like Barcelona’s, where effective communication can significantly impact team performance and harmony.

“Flick is a coach who values direct communication with his players, and having someone who can facilitate this in both German and Spanish would be incredibly beneficial,” notes a source close to the club.

Exploring Other Options: Ivan Rakitić and the Challenge Ahead

Another name that has surfaced is Ivan Rakitić. The former Barcelona midfielder, now in Saudi Arabia, speaks both languages fluently and understands the club’s ethos. However, his current contractual situation and the financial implications make this an almost improbable option.

“Rakitić, with his perfect knowledge of both German and Spanish and past tenure at Barça, is an option that could be considered. However, the feasibility of such a move remains low due to his current commitments,” an insider from the club revealed.

Barcelona acknowledges the complexities involved in securing the right candidate for this unique position. Yet, the club remains determined to find someone who can embody the necessary footballing knowledge, command respect in the dressing room, and bridge the linguistic divide.

Conclusion: A Strategic Move for Long-Term Success

Barcelona’s pursuit of a multilingual liaison reflects a strategic approach to modern football management. By integrating experienced ex-players who can communicate effectively with the squad, the club aims to create a more cohesive and understanding environment. This move is not just about immediate gains but also about setting a foundation for sustained success under Flick’s leadership.

As Barcelona continues its search, the club’s commitment to this innovative role underscores the evolving nature of football management, where off-the-pitch contributions are increasingly recognized as vital to on-the-pitch success.