Master of first contact: a tribute to the end of Thiago’s career

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Thiago almost single-handedly carried Bayern forward

It was only because of the axis of Manuel Neuer, Thiago and Robert Lewandowski that this club was still competitive at the international level. Right when his great sponsor Guardiola left, Thiago began his best time at FC Bayern. Because he freed himself from the prejudices that surrounded him. Because he grew into a responsible role.

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Thiago carried the Munich game almost single-handedly. Whenever he was missing it was clear how unimaginative and hollow Bayern’s game seemed at that time. Almost all the creativity came from him. And to this day his importance is underrated even by those who value it. Also because his last years at Liverpool FC revived one or two old cliches.

Very good footballer, important player – none of these do him justice. “A regular place in our legends team is always reserved,” Jan-Christian Driessen explained when the Spaniard said goodbye. He was referring to the team that represents FC Bayern in charity events, among other things. The term “legend” is defined very broadly there.

But even if you define him very narrowly, Thiago is one of FCB’s legends. Apart from the plethora of titles he won with the Munich team, it’s the way he won over fans. Thiago was a unique footballer. And finally the answer to the question of what perfect football looks like.