Thiago returned to Anfield on Saturday to take part in a Legends game
Thiago and wife Julia
Thiago and wife Julia(Image: JuliaVigas Instagram)
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Thiago Alcantara returned to Anfield on Saturday for Liverpool Legends against Borussia Dortmund Legends in front of a record breaking crowd. A squad of former Reds players battled hard for a 2-2 draw to a side of Dortmund Legends.
Legends debutant Thiago and Jay Spearing were on the scoresheet during the first half, before goals from Mohamed Zidan and Jan Koller after the break levelled the scoreline. The match was held in support of the LFC Foundation and also marked Jurgen Klopp's first return to Anfield since the Reds secured the Premier League title last season.
Former Liverpool midfielder Thiago, spoke to LiverpoolFC.com about the match. He said: "It's amazing. Two things got together, that is a full Anfield and playing with this legend [Gerrard]. It was an unbelievable moment and I will keep it with me for sure.
"When I scored, Stevie came and I told him it was the first sprinting I did since I arrived in Liverpool! Why not? In that moment we just react, we are comfortable in the box. It's nice to score."
Liverpool Legends' Thiago Alcantara celebrates scoring the first goal of the game
Liverpool Legends' Thiago Alcantara celebrates scoring the first goal of the game (Image: PA Wire)
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Yesterday, Thiago's wife Julia Vigas shared a picture standing in the stands at Anfield. She captioned the post: "Still smiling after yesterday. Being back at Anfield and watching Thiago play again felt so special!"
Julia also shared a picture of her family on the pitch as their children wore Liverpool tops with their dad's name on the back. When Thiago left Liverpool in May 2024, Julia wrote a heartfelt message to mark their time on Merseyside.
She said: "Sunday was a day of strong emotions. It is never easy to say goodbye to your home. Thanks to all the friends who have been part of this adventure; we made friendships that will last forever.
"And to all of you, LFC supporters and followers, who are always there, thank you for the daily support. We have felt it from day one. We hope to see you soon." She told followers that part of the family's history had been written in Liverpool and it was an "honour" to spend time in the city.
Between 2020 and 2024 Thiago made 98 appearances for Liverpool. He won the FA Cup (2022) and League Cup (2022) during his four seasons with the Reds.
Thiago and his family at Anfield
Thiago and his family at Anfield(Image: JuliaVigas Instagram)
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After Thiago's departure, Klopp said: "He was part of a new story and helped us develop as a team because of his special qualities. 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. This is what I will remember."
The Liverpool FC official Instagram page uploaded a video of Thiago's finish in the Legends game. Supporters of the Reds praised the retired footballer. One comment said: "I miss this magic on the field."
Another supporter joked: "Can we sign him on a fee till the end of the season please" and others responded "What is Thiago doing in the legends team? Bring him in" and "He'd still walk into the team."