Barcelona manager Hansi Flick wants Thiago Alcantara to mentor 2 La Masia graduates - Reports
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick reportedly wants new coaching staff member Thiago Alcantara to specially mentor Pablo Gavi and Pedri. According to Relevo's Alex Pintanel, the Blaugrana head coach is convinced the former midfielder can help the two La Masia gems take their game to the next level.
Thiago Alcantara sealed a sensational return to Barcelona - this time as a member of Hansi Flick's coaching staff. After playing in the center of the pitch during his career, the Spaniard will be entrusted to help nurture the youngsters, especially the midfielders.
As reported by Pintanel, Flick has given the former Bayern Munich star an assignment to closely work with Pedri and Gavi. The German reportedly believes the former Liverpool midfielder can help sharpen the skillset of the young duo due to his vast tactical knowledge of football and La Masia background.
The story also mentioned that the two midfielders are considered valuable pieces of Barcelona's project going forward and Flick is determined to build the midfield around them in the future. The German highly rates Pedri's incredible vision and ability to hold the ball while he considers Gavi a complete footballer.
If this report is to be believed, Flick's decision to entrust Gavi and Pedri under Thiago's guidance appears to be a smart move. The 33-year-old not only understands Barcelona's system, he also comprehends the German's tactics, having played under him at Bayern Munich.
The Spaniard could help translate the manager's style to the duo while helping them to gain further understanding of the Blaugrana system.
There seems to be one major hurdle to this process. Pedri and Gavi have suffered multiple injuries in recent years and the coaching staff will need to find a way to keep them fit to unlock their full potential.
What is next for Barcelona and Hansi Flick?
Following the conclusion of Euro 2024 this summer and players returning to their respective clubs, Barca will now be looking forward to their preseason outing, which is scheduled to take place between July 30 and August 11.
Hansi Flick's men will play the curtain raiser versus Premier League giants Manchester City on Wednesday, July 30. That will be followed by another high-profile clash with arch-rivals Real Madrid on Sunday, August 3.
The Catalan giants will then go head-to-head with AC Milan on August 7 before rounding up their preseason with the Joan Gamper Trophy match versus Monaco on August 12.