When Did Thiago Leave Barcelona?

By Robert Palmer

Thiago Alcântara, the talented Spanish midfielder, left Barcelona in the summer of 2013. His departure marked the end of an era for both the player and the club. Let’s delve into the details of when and why Thiago decided to leave his boyhood club.

The Early Years

Thiago, born on April 11, 1991, started his footballing journey in the famed La Masia academy. It was evident from a young age that he possessed immense talent and potential. He quickly rose through the ranks and made his first-team debut for Barcelona in May 2009 at just 18 years old.

Over the next few seasons, Thiago showcased his technical skills, vision, and versatility on the pitch. He became an integral part of Barcelona’s midfield, earning praise from fans and pundits alike.

The Departure

However, despite his success at Barcelona, Thiago began to express a desire for more playing time. With established midfielders like Xavi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta, and Sergio Busquets ahead of him in the pecking order, opportunities were limited.

In July 2013, Bayern Munich came knocking on Thiago’s door with a tempting offer. The German giants were managed by Pep Guardiola at that time – a manager who held Thiago in high regard due to their shared history at Barcelona.

The Transfer:

  • On July 14th, 2013 – Bayern Munich officially announced that they had signed Thiago Alcântara from Barcelona.
  • The transfer fee was reported to be around €25 million.

The Bayern Munich Years

Thiago’s move to Bayern Munich proved to be a turning point in his career. He reunited with Guardiola and was given more playing time and responsibilities. He thrived in the Bundesliga, showcasing his exceptional skills and contributing significantly to Bayern’s success.

During his seven-year stint at Bayern, Thiago won numerous domestic titles, including the Bundesliga title on multiple occasions. He also played a crucial role in helping the club secure the UEFA Champions League trophy in the 2019-2020 season.

Return to Spain

In September 2020, after a successful spell with Bayern Munich, Thiago made another significant move. This time, he returned to Spain but joined Liverpool, one of the powerhouse clubs in the English Premier League.

Thiago’s decision to leave Barcelona back in 2013 opened doors for new opportunities and challenges. While he undoubtedly left behind a legacy at his boyhood club, his journey since then has been filled with triumphs and personal growth.

In Conclusion

The summer of 2013 marked Thiago Alcântara’s departure from Barcelona. His move to Bayern Munich allowed him to blossom into one of the best midfielders in Europe. Although he left behind memories and success at Barcelona, Thiago’s decision ultimately led him on an incredible journey that continues to this day.