Hansi Flick achieves objective: Former Barcelona and Liverpool midfielder to join staff

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has met with now retired midfielder Thiago Alcantara about potentially becoming one of his staff, and it appears he has persuaded the 33-year-old to do so.

Thiago was seen arriving at the club’s offices and training ground on Wednesday morning, as the players come in for their medical tests and the beginning of preseason. According to Sport, despite initial doubts about taking the role, Thiago has given the green light to join Flick”s staff.

The club are still working out exactly in what capacity he will do so, and discussing the specifics of his role and his contract. Thiago does not want his deal to be a burden, and is keen to be free to leave if other opportunities arise in the short or medium term. Flick has been keen to have him on board as a link between the squad and the coaching staff.

The former Liverpool and Bayern Munich midfielder, who announced his retirement this week, coincided with Flick in his final year in Bavaria. He speaks both German and Spanish, and knows the club inside out, having come through La Masia. He would be a second member of Flick’s staff that already speaks both languages after Heiko Westermann was brought in.