Thiago Alcantara has opened up about the influence Jurgen Klopp had on his early coaching steps, and his words may surprise many Liverpool fans.
The former midfielder, who retired last summer, shared how one unexpected moment with Klopp changed his path — and even hinted that the German saw his coaching potential before he did.
But what exactly did Klopp tell him that stayed with him long after his final game?
Thiago’s retirement came after years of injury struggles. He featured only once in his final Liverpool season and missed more than 130 matches over four years.
The decision to walk away at 34 was painful, and he admitted it took time to accept a life after football. He explained to Coaches’ Voice that saying goodbye was tough, not because of what came next, but because he had to let go of something he loved deeply.
Since then, Thiago has stepped into coaching at Barcelona, becoming assistant manager at the club where his football journey began. And as he adjusts to a new role, he says the lessons he picked up from Klopp are now part of his day-to-day work.
Thiago said Klopp “exudes energy on a daily basis” and praised the former Liverpool boss for his ability to turn difficult situations into something positive.
According to Thiago, Klopp had a unique way of lifting the group, sometimes through calm talks and other times through unexpected humor.
One idea stuck with him: in Klopp’s training sessions, the play never stops. Even simple drills stayed alive, always preparing players for transitions and rebounds. Thiago believes this constant flow built the intensity that defined Liverpool’s style.
He also revealed something more personal: “It was Jurgen who told me I was going to be a coach.”
Thiago said Klopp saw leadership qualities in him, especially as he grew older and began guiding younger teammates. He started understanding patterns, helping others through games, and thinking like a coach without realizing it.
The Spaniard also credited many other managers in his career, including Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti, but said Klopp’s input was key in shaping how he now views team dynamics and problem-solving on the pitch.
The moment that changed Thiago’s mindset forever
Thiago explained that the shift happened near the end of his playing days. He began noticing details in matches—things that helped him guide others instead of only focusing on his own performance.
This curiosity, as he put it, slowly pushed him toward coaching. Klopp simply helped him realize it sooner.
Now, at Barcelona, Thiago aims to pass on what he learned: energy, intensity, and the idea that every moment in training can become a chance to gain an advantage.
Jurgen Klopp’s Managerial Career Stats
| Club / Period | Games | Wins | Draws | Losses | Goals For | Goals Against | Win % | Major Trophies Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mainz 05 (2001–08) | 270 | 109 | 78 | 83 | 425 | 341 | 40% | Bundesliga promotion (2003/04) |
| Borussia Dortmund (2008–15) | 320 | 181 | 69 | 70 | 626 | 332 | 57% | Bundesliga (2), German Cup (1), Supercup (2), UCL runner-up (2012/13) |
| Liverpool (2015–2024) | 546 | 339 | 108 | 99 | 1,167 | 566 | 61.2% | Premier League (1), Champions League (1), FA Cup (1), League Cup (2), Club World Cup (1), UEFA Super Cup (1), Community |