During the summer, Barcelona brought in former midfielder Thiago Alcantara as a temporary coach working with first-team manager Hansi Flick.
The ex-academy graduate, who announced his retirement in the summer, was brought in to help Flick ease into things due to his command over German and Spanish languages as well as his familiarity with the club and its philosophy.
The stint was a short one though as Thiago had to return to England but rumours of a possible return in January have been doing the rounds for a while already.
Thiago could come back
Now, MARCA reports that Barcelona are close to adding Thiago to the coaching staff, which currently consists of Flick as head coach, Marcus Sorg, Toni Tapalovic, and Heiko Westermann as assistants.
In fact, this situation could be resolved as early as January.
Set to return. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
Thiago’s time with Flick and the first team proved beneficial for all parties involved. The club was both pleased and impressed by his knowledge. Additionally, the former midfielder also formed a special rapport with the players.
As such, the Blaugrana are eager to have him back at the club as part of the support staff with the reunion likely to happen next month.
When Thiago left at the end of August, Barcelona announced that Arnau Blanco would take over his duties.
Blanco, a coach who has worked in the club’s youth system for the last eleven seasons, was entrusted with the role.
Barcleona acknowledge that his work has been excellent and believes he should continue at the highest level despite Thiago’s potential return.