Thiago approached over stunning return to football less than 24 hours after his retirement

The former Liverpool star is set to make a shock return to football.

Former Liverpool star Thiago Alcantara has been approached over a stunning return to football just 24 hours after retiring.

Thiago left Liverpool last month upon the expiration of his contract, and on Sunday he announced his retirement.

The Spanish midfielder spent four years at Anfield, but he played just five minutes of football last season due to hip and muscle injuries.

Before joining Liverpool the 33-year-old spent time with Barcelona and Bayern Munich, winning 11 league titles and two Champions League crowns across both spells.

In a stunning turn of events, Thiago could be set to return to football just 24 hours after retiring.

According to Spanish journalist Toni Juanmarti, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick wants Thiago to return to Camp Nou as part of his coaching staff.

Flick was appointed Barca coach earlier this summer following the dismissal of Xavi Hernandez.

The German coach knows Thiago well having worked together at Bayern Munich during the 2019-20 season, which ended in them winning the Champions League.

Flick is reportedly attempting to persuade Thiago to join him at Barcelona, 11 years after the former Spain international left Catalonia.

Thiago is believed to be ‘leaning towards accepting the offer’ as he has aspirations of moving into coaching.

If the former midfielder gives the go-ahead, then the matter will need to be discussed with Barca bosses.

Shortly after the report emerged, shared a message on his social media profiles hinting at an immediate return to a former club.

“I will always be willing to give back what I have been given and I am grateful for the time I have enjoyed it,” he wrote alongside a series of photot from his time at Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Liverpool.

“Thank you, football. And to all who accompanied me and made me a better player and person along the way.

“See you soon, Thiago.”