Fran Sanchez: “Thiago is a virtuoso”
The first coach of Thiago Alcántara at La Masia, Francesc Sanchez Bas, stresses the potential of the young midfielder. According to Fran, “Thiago is the finest example of virtuosity with the ball.” Thiago Alcantara’s debut as a starter in an official match against Sevilla FC at the Camp Nou might have been subdued due to the defeat, but the midfielders playing was one of the most positive aspects of the first leg of the round of sixteen of the Copa Del Rey.
Thiago Alcantara signed for Barça in 2005 at the age of 14 along with his brother Rafa Alcantara (16), who is currently plying his trade in the Juvenil A side just two steps away from the first team. Fran was the coach of that team which included great talents like, Thiago Alcantara, Gai Assulin, Marti Riverola, Marc Barta, Martin Montoya, Ruben Rochina, Dani Pacheco, among others.
The current coach of the Cadet A was from the outset, fascinated by the quality of that young pearl of 14 years: “Thiago has football in his blood, he was by far the best player when he had ball. Gradually he learned to use his talent for the benefit of the team and this made him an even better player.”
Fran has worked with many players with great skill in the Barca ranks, but according to him Thiago’s technique and power to imbalance is unique: “I think he is the finest example of virtuosity with the ball. When the ball is at his feet he is amazing, he can do anything.”