Thiago Alcantara Could Return in a Month and a Half Claims Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso has hinted that Bayern Munich​ teammate Thiago Alcantara could be set for an early return to action [via ​Bavarianfootballworks.com].

Thiago, who hasn't played since March 2014 thanks to a knee injury, suffered further setbacks in May and October - ruling him out for an unspecified amount of time.

Matthias Sammer, the Bayern sporting director, said last month: "I'm not going to offer an opinion [on the injuries to Thaigo and Javi Martinez]. We'll give them all the time in the world, because all that matters is getting them fit again."

But in a recent fanclub visit Alonso let slip about a possible time-frame for his compatriot's recovery, revealing: "I am in contact with him, and he's making progress.

"He is running again, but he still has about one and a half months to go. It's important that he's 100% again."

That would hint at a possible return to action in the middle of March, but after a year on the sidelines it has been suggested that Bayern could take their time with Thiago in order to get him fit again for next season.

The Bundesliga champions did likewise with defender Holger Badstuber during the 2013-14 campaign.

Bayern Munich's Thiago Alcantara Suffers Another Huge Injury Setback

Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara is facing 'a lengthy absence' after tearing a ligament in his right knee.

The 23-year-old Spanish international has been out of action since March when he tore a ligament in a Bundesliga clash with Hoffenheim, but had to undergo surgery after a brief return in May. Having missed the World Cup in the summer, Thiago was on the comeback trail only to re-injure himself in training on Wednesday.

Bayern tweeted the news shortly afterwards, saying: "Devastating: @Thiago6 (23) has suffered a ligament tear in training. He needs an operation and is set for another lengthy absence."

Speaking on Bayern's official website, Thiago said: "What can I say? Of course, I am profoundly disappointed and desperate at the moment.

"Why always me? But I will not give up. I will fight again. I'm going to get close again and I will celebrate my comeback at Bayern."

Thiago played 20 times across all competitions for Bayern last season, but has yet to make an appearance for the German champions this season. However, Bayern sporting director Matthias Sammer insists Bayern will stand by their young talent in his recuperation.

Sammer said: "We are all shocked and saddened by this re-injury. 

"Thiago was so close to his comeback after a long time out but he knows that the whole of FC Bayern is there for him. We will do everything to ensure that he is healthy again and can bring us a lot of titles."