Jurgen Klopp recently conveyed during a press conference that Thiago Alcantara will not be making a return to the pitch until the New Year. Thiago had been grappling with a persistent hip ailment that led to his surgery in May, effectively sidelining him from Liverpool’s squad. His last start was back in February, in a Premier League match against Wolves.
Despite a promising return to team training in August, Thiago encountered yet another setback just as he was edging closer to full recovery. Klopp emphasized that while there is an expectation for the 32-year-old midfielder to come back at the start of the New Year, his ongoing struggle with injuries remains a concern.
Regarding a potential return timeframe for both Thiago and Stefan Bajcetic, Klopp admitted they didn’t have one. In Stefan’s case, his body was still in a phase of growth, and Liverpool would patiently wait until he is fully prepared. As for Thiago, his situation is somewhat different, as his injury woes have been a recurring theme.
Thiago is renowned for his exceptional abilities on the field, making his absence deeply felt by both fans and the coaching staff. However, there isn’t a pressing need to pinpoint his return date at the moment. Liverpool took measures to reinforce their midfield during the summer transfer window due to Thiago’s prolonged inactivity. With the current form of the midfield players in Klopp’s team, it might prove challenging for the 32-year-old to secure significant playing time for the remainder of the season.
When Thiago eventually makes his return, which is expected to be early in the coming year, he may find himself in a backup role. The midfield roster’s effectiveness, combined with the uncertainty surrounding Thiago’s fitness, suggests that he might not immediately slot back into a starting position. Nevertheless, his experience and skill set make him a valuable asset, providing depth and versatility in Klopp’s lineup.
