Barcelona have no plans to add former midfielder to Hansi Flick’s coaching staff | OneFootball

Earlier today, reports emerged claiming that FC Barcelona were all set to bring back former midfielder Thiago Alcantara as part of the coaching staff under Hansi Flick.

Thiago played a supporting role as part of the staff soon after Flick’s arrival at Barcelona last year.

The former La Masia graduate was a key presence in the manager’s early weeks at the club, especially in communication and relaying tactical instructions to the midfielders. During that time, he also forged a strong connection with some of the players.

However, the arrangement was always a short-term one as Thiago had to return to Liverpool. But rumours of a return have been circulating since January, and it was reported today that he was close to rejoining the staff.

Barcelona not considering Thiago’s return

But, according to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have no intention of including Thiago in the first-team coaching staff for the upcoming campaign.

No reunion. (Photo courtesy: FC Barcelona official website)

The former player, who was coached by Flick at Bayern Munich, has been living with his family in Barcelona for several months following his retirement from football. He is now focused on preparing for a future career in coaching.

In fact, Thiago expressed interest in continuing to work with the club, but only in a part-time capacity, without full involvement in the team’s daily training sessions or season-long travel schedule.

For this reason, the Blaugrana have ruled out bringing Thiago in, with the report also confirming that Flick has not formally requested his inclusion in his staff.

Barcelona happy with current staff

Barcelona’s sporting leadership is fully satisfied with the structure of Flick’s current staff, which includes Marcus Sorg, Heiko Westermann, and Toni Tapalovic.

Jose Ramon de la Fuente, who is highly trusted by goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen, remains in his position as goalkeeping coach and will continue in the role this season, despite the emergence of Joan Garcia as the new starting goalkeeper.