Thiago sale is a mistake (Video)

Bayern Munich's signing of midfielder Thiago Alcantara from Barcelona has left many people questioning what the Spanish club is up to. The 22-year-old, who has already played a fair amount of first team football at the Camp Nou over the past few seasons, was apparently unhappy at not being assured of regular first team action. No doubt that Pep Guardiola has had an important influence on this transfer and with a £22m deal sealing the move, it would appear that he will line-up alongside Bastian Schweinsteiger in their midfield next season. Why then were Barcelona unable to convince him to stay?

The most problematic part of developing through La Masia academy at Barcelona is that you know that sooner or later you are going to have to fight for your place against some of the world's finest players for a first team shirt. Xavi, Iniesta and Busquets have been unmovable since Pep Guardiola took charge of the club in 2008, with the latter eventually forcing Yaya Toure to move to Manchester City because he couldn't get a game. Still only 24-years-old, the tall, holding midfielder has cemented his place not only at club level but also for the all-conquering Spanish national team and doesn't look like giving his place to anyone for years to come. 

Andres Iniesta is 29 and still has at least four years left at the very highest level, whilst teammate Xavi could potentially play for a similar period of time, as he has never had any pace to speak of anyway and relies upon his passing accuracy more than anything else.

Cesc Fabregas is now reportedly the subject of interest from Manchester United, as after moving back to his home club just two years ago he also cannot force his way into the first team on a regular basis. For a player that was an ever present, club captain, and probably the finest player at Arsenal for many seasons, he has struggled to adapt to playing a bit part role and often watching from the substitutes bench.

Bearing in mind all of the above, perhaps it is not so surprising that Thiago has moved on, especially as he wants to be selected for the World Cup next summer. Regular football in Germany with the current European champions will certainly enhance his prospects, so from his point of view it appears a good solution. However, Barcelona have just got rid of one of the most promising midfielders of his generation, who recently helped the Spanish U21's to glory by netting a hat-trick in the final. I can't help but feel that this was an unnecessary and short-sighted approach from the club and a decision that may come back to haunt them.

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