Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed that Thiago Alcantara is nearing his long-awaited return to action after joining team training on Monday (January 29).
Thiago has been absent from the Reds’ lineup for 278 days, with his last match being on April 23, 2023, in a 2-1 victory against West Ham United. The Spanish midfielder endured a significant hip injury that required surgery during the summer.
Despite nearing a return in August and September, Thiago faced setbacks in his recovery process, delaying his comeback until this week.
Liverpool has felt the absence of Thiago’s experience and creativity in midfield throughout the season. Fans will be encouraged to hear that he participated in full team training on Monday.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of their fixture against Chelsea on January 31, Klopp remarked (via Liverpool’s official website):
“Thiago trained [for the] first time, which was an incredible moment after all the months he couldn’t. And then training at the level he trains – oof! But he needs time. But it’s anyway a wonderful sign for yesterday.”
Thiago is anticipated to return to action in the upcoming weeks. With three goals and six assists in 97 appearances across all competitions, his presence will be a significant boost for Liverpool.
Bruce Grobbelaar believes that a former Chelsea manager could be an ideal successor to Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool.
Liverpool legend Bruce Grobbelaar has suggested that Graham Potter could be the perfect candidate to succeed Jurgen Klopp at the end of the season.
Klopp’s announcement of his departure from Anfield after nine years sent shockwaves through the football world on January 26.
As fans speculate about potential replacements, names like Xabi Alonso and Roberto De Zerbi have been thrown into the mix. However, Grobbelaar outlined his reasons for endorsing Potter, stating to RTE (via Rousing the Kop):
“What he did with Brighton, he had to mold young players and get them into the first team and manage that type of environment and I think he would be very fitting to come to Liverpool. Because we’ve got some great youngsters and use them to carry on the legacy that Klopp has left.”
Potter earned recognition for his work at Brighton & Hove Albion from 2019 to 2022, known for his attacking brand of football. However, concerns may arise regarding his suitability for the role due to his less successful stint as Chelsea manager last season.
