Barcelona waiting to confirm return of former star after special lunch organised by Hansi Flick

Former Spanish international Alcantara is set to return to Barca’s coaching staff at the request of Flick. The 34-year-old former midfielder, who was spotted at the club's headquarters this week and also attended a team lunch organised by Flick, has not yet signed his contract but is expected to finalise terms soon, according to Mundo Deportivo. His role will be as an assistant to Flick, bridging the gap between coach and squad, while keeping a close eye on Camp Nou’s emerging talents from La Masia.

Barca are in a period of reconstruction under Flick, and the addition of Thiago represents a smart, symbolic appointment. As a La Masia product who spent four seasons in the first team before winning the sextuple at Bayern Munich under Flick and later competing in the Premier League with Liverpool, Thiago combines deep knowledge of Barca’s identity with first-hand experience of Flick’s tactical methods. He becomes both a cultural bridge and a tactical interpreter, helping players adjust to the German’s pressing and positional play while preserving the essence of Barcelona’s style.

During his short stint last year, he left a lasting impression on Pedri, Gavi and Marc Casado, who praised his ability to pass down his trademark vision and calmness. This time around, his responsibilities are even broader as he will serve as a mentor for young midfielders, while guiding senior players through Flick’s system. His fluency in German adds another dimension, enabling him to act as Flick’s “translator” on and off the pitch.

He will be given a flexible contract that will allow him to find a balance between work with Flick's fellow staff members and life with his family.

Thiago’s contract details still need to be finalised, but once confirmed, he will be fully integrated into Flick’s backroom staff. His presence is expected to play a key role in bridging La Masia graduates with the first team and ensuring Flick’s methods are smoothly absorbed by the squad.