Former Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara has announced his retirement from professional, confirming reports of his retirement initially circulated. The 33-year-old, whose contract with Liverpool ended last month, is expected to remain in football circles in another capacity with La Liga side Barcelona.

Although initially mentioned by Fabrizio Romano, the midfielder announced his retirement on his social media handle on Monday, stating that he enjoyed football but would soon be back.

“I will always be willing to give back what I have been given and I am grateful for the time I have enjoyed it. Thank you, football. And to all who accompanied me and made me a better player and person along the way. See you soon, Thiago.” He posted on X.

Thiago Alcantara is expected to become an assistant under Hansi Flick, who will become the new Barcelona head coach for the 2024/2025 season. Interestingly, Alcantara also played under Hansi Flick at Bayern Munich, where he was featured in around 101 appearances.

Barcelona’s preseason is expected to start on Wednesday as Hansi Flick started training at Barcelona on Monday, although Alcantara’s position has not been finalized.

Thiago Alcantara only played a single Premier League game for Liverpool during the just-ended season, with injuries causing issues for the midfielder.

He featured in 68 matches for Barcelona between 2009 and 2013, winning everything available, from the La Liga and UEFA Champions League to the FIFA Club World Cup. He spent seven years in Germany with Bayern Munich, where he played in over 150 fixtures and won multiple titles for the club.

At Liverpool, he spent four years but barely racked up around 70 games in all competitions, winning the FA Cup. He was featured in 46 appearances for the Spanish national team, which is a one-time FIFA World Cup winner.

Meanwhile, Liverpool is also coached by a new man in charge, Arne Slot who will take charge of the 2024/2025 season.