Jurgen Klopp last used Thiago in April due to a groin injury, but any January move is believed to be “unlikely”.The 32-year-old last played in the 2-1 win on April 26 but has since focused on recovering from injury.
The hip operation took place in early May, and a series of setbacks later forced him back in early 2024, extending his absence by more than eight months. However, despite Thiago’s injury, there has been no shortage of reports of a possible move in January, with his former club Barcelona part of the ongoing rumours.
For a long time it looked like it was just talk, with The Athletic’s James Pearce saying: “A winter move is all but impossible, despite reports to the contrary.”The Spaniard is out of contract in the summer and a move is highly likely, with both the player and Liverpool hoping to make one final contribution before then. Liverpool, England – Tuesday, September 6, 2022: Liverpool’s Thiago Alcantara trains at the AXA Training Center ahead of the UEFA Champions League Group A match between Napoli and Liverpool FC.
Spending time on the sidelines through injury can be a lonely experience and Pierce explains that Klopp and the rest of the staff have done all they can to encourage and involve him.
In early November, Klopp detailed the timing of the return of the No. 6, saying, “This is a work in progress.“We can’t put any pressure on him here but we expect him to be back early in the new year. “Now it’s November. That means we need four more weeks. I’d say it’s worth a try.”Honestly, we’re looking forward to him coming back. “This player is really special.”After a couple of setbacks, it’s clear he’ll have to be cautious about his return, but any contribution he can make in the second half of the season would be welcome.
The situation in midfield has changed dramatically since he last played, and while a contract extension is unlikely, a player of his caliber could still have a say in how successful the campaign is.
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