Liverpool transfers: Thiago linked with SHOCK Barcelona return... but there's a catch | OneFootball

Barcelona have contacted Thiago Alcantara over becoming an ASSISTANT to incoming head coach Hansi Flick.

That’s according to a new report in AS, which claims Barca are seeking a German and Spanish-speaking link between Flick and the dressing room.

Three players initially fit the bill for the Catalans, including Thiago, Javi Martinez and Marc Bartra. All three played in the Bunsesliga - Thiago and Martinez for Bayern and Bartra for Borussia Dortmund.

In the case of Thiago and Bartra, meanwhile, they are both Barca La Masia graduates.

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AS reports that Barca are initially ‘pessimistic’ about Thiago’s chances of taking up the role, which could put an early end to his playing career.

At 33, the playmaker has just left Liverpool on a free transfer after four years and has been expected to continue his playing career elsewhere.

The Spain international had been linked with Barca earlier this season and also teams in Brazil and the Saudi Pro League.

Jurgen Klopp Thiago

He suffered another injury-hit campaign for the Reds, only appearing for five minutes in the Premier League before his contract expired.

“I know injuries have been a frustration for him and also for us but the level that he was able to play at when he was available was incredible,” Jurgen Klopp said at Thiago’s Anfield farewell last Sunday.

“This is what I will remember. Now he will go in a new direction with his family and we can only wish them well.

“Wherever he plays next I would be happy to watch. An artist of the game who will only ever paint the most beautiful pictures.”

Barca and Xavi part ways

Barca announced on Friday that Xavi would no longer continue to be their head coach and it is now widely expected that Flick will be his replacement.

A treble winner with Bayern in 2020, when Thiago was a star in the midfield, Flick endured a poor spell in charge of the German national team and was replaced by Julian Nagelsmann, a candidate for the Liverpool managerial role before it was handed to Arne Slot.

Another option for the link-role that has been suggested is Ivan Rakitic, but he too is expected to prolong his playing career.

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