Thiago Alcantara: Liverpool’s Forgotten Gem?
Introduction
Thiago Alcantara’s time at Liverpool has been plagued by injuries, leading to doubts about his future with the club. Despite a stellar performance against Manchester United in 2022, Thiago has struggled to stay fit and has spent a significant amount of time on the sidelines. It’s hard to imagine a different outcome for his Liverpool career, especially with news of another injury setback.
High hopes
Liverpool fans were thrilled when Thiago, a highly regarded midfielder, joined the club. His arrival was met with excitement as Liverpool doesn’t typically sign ready-made stars. Supporters were optimistic that Thiago’s addition would bring a new dimension to the team’s style of play. The theory was that his playmaking abilities would help unlock defenses and turn draws into wins.
Long absences
Unfortunately, Thiago’s time at Liverpool has been marred by injuries. The club overlooked his injury history when signing him, and it has cost them dearly. Thiago had been sidelined on multiple occasions in the seasons leading up to joining Liverpool. His fitness record made it unlikely that he could handle the intensity of the Premier League at his age. While bad luck, such as contracting Covid and suffering an X-rated challenge, also played a role in his absences, it was clear that Thiago’s fitness was a concern.
A class act
Despite his injuries, Thiago showcased his talent during his limited appearances for Liverpool. His return to the side in the 2021/22 season coincided with a winning streak and impressive goal-scoring. His technique and skill were evident, with a breathtaking half-volley against Porto being a standout moment. However, setbacks continued to plague him, and he missed important games due to injuries.
Regrets
Thiago’s time at Liverpool may be considered one of the great lost careers at the club. His talent was undeniable, but his lack of availability was a constant frustration. His signing may have inadvertently led to the departure of Gini Wijnaldum, a more reliable and robust midfielder. The decision not to sign midfield reinforcements in the summer after Thiago’s arrival is now seen as a mistake.
Conclusion
Thiago Alcantara’s Liverpool career has been a mixture of brilliance and disappointment. While injuries have prevented him from reaching his full potential with the club, his talent and skill were evident in the limited appearances he made. Ultimately, his story at Liverpool may have one final chapter, but it is uncertain if he will be able to overcome his injury woes.