Liverpool confirm Thiago Alcantara will LEAVE the club as a free agent at the end of the season... after Spanish midfielder struggled with injuries throughout the campaign

Liverpool have confirmed that midfielder Thiago Alcantara will leave the club at the end of the season. 

The Spanish international will depart upon the expiration of his current deal, having spent four successful years in Merseyside since joining from Bayern Munich in 2020. 

The 33-year-old has won an FA Cup and the Community Shield during his time at the club, having made 98 appearances for the Reds.

Taking to X, Thiago wrote an emotional message to Liverpool supporters, in which he thanked them for their support over the last four years.

He wrote: 'Appreciation and gratitude. They are two words that come to mind on the day I have to say goodbye to all of you, Reds.

'Thankful, too. Thankful for the opportunity to have been a part of this city, this club and this community.

'The continuous support I have received since day one has been incredible: Anfield cheering, The Kop chanting... amazing, overwhelming. A very unique fan base for a unique club.

'These past four years have been a time of learning for me and my family. Some wins, some defeats, but without a doubt, a life-changing experience.

'Team mates, coaches, staff, and club employees: you were all part of it. And to the fans, I don't have the words. Just know you will have my deepest gratitude forever.

'Thank you, it was an honour. All the best always, Liverpool FC. Thiago'.

The Spaniard has been a key member of Klopp's team at Liverpool however has seen his 2023-24 campaign blighted by a number of injuries. 

The midfielder managed just 13 minutes of first-team action - which came as a brief cameo during their 3-1 defeat to Arsenal back in February.

In a statement on the club website, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp also paid tribute to the central midfielder. 

Klopp said: 'Before he even came to Liverpool I believed that if you really love football it would make a lot of sense if you watched Thiago Alcantara play.

'Technically, he is so, so good. A talent who could play in any team in the world and it was a privilege to have him with us.

'I already knew a lot about him as a footballer before he got here – what he did at Barcelona and Bayern Munich, how could you not? – and I could not have been happier when he decided to take on a new challenge with us. 

'From that point on I got to see him up close and all I can say is 'Wow'. Most importantly, he was part of a new story and helped us develop as a team because of his special qualities.

'I know injuries have been a frustration for him and also for us but the level that he was able to play at when he was available was incredible. This is what I will remember.

'Now he will go in a new direction with his family and we can only wish them well. Wherever he plays next I would be happy to watch. An artist of the game who will only ever paint the most beautiful pictures.'