Former Liverpool and Spain midfielder Thiago Alcantara retires at age of 33
Thiago became a free agent following the expiration of his Anfield contract after the 2023-24 Premier League season.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Former Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara says he feels “grateful” after announcing his retirement from football.
The 33-year-old became a free agent following the expiration of his Anfield contract after the 2023-24 Premier League season and has decided to hang up his boots rather than seek out a new employer.
The ex-Spain international, who won 46 caps, took to X to announce the decision he came to after four injury-plagued years with the Reds.
He wrote: “I will always be willing to give back what I have been given and I am grateful for the time I have enjoyed.
“Thank you, football. And to all who accompanied me and made me a better player and person along the way. See you soon, Thiago.”
Thiago emerged through the youth ranks at Barcelona and properly broke into the first team during the 2010-11 campaign, which saw his side claim both the LaLiga and Champions League trophies.
Another Spanish title, a FIFA Club World Cup and a Copa del Rey followed over his next two seasons at the Spanish outfit before he moved to the Bundesliga, joining Bayern Munich in 2013.
Bayern lifted the Bundesliga title in each of his seven campaigns with the club, as well as four German Cups and another Club World Cup and their Champions League victory during the 2019-20 campaign.
Thiago joined Liverpool in September 2020 and made 98 appearances for the Reds but featured for just six minutes of their most recent Premier League campaign.