Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara has trained with the ball for the first time since resuming rehabilitation training last week.
Thiago, 23, who joined Bayern from Barcelona in 2013, has not played for the Bundesliga champions since March 29, 2014 -- when he suffered a ligament injury in his knee during the 3-3 draw against Hoffenheim.
The Spain international has been sidelined for 11 months, failing two comeback attempts in May and October. Following his second setback, he underwent surgery in Barcelona, and also began his rehabilitation training there.
Friends reunited! @Thiago6 has the ball at his feet once again. #MiaSanMia pic.twitter.com/2HcSYAuNTr
- FC Bayern English (@FCBayernEN) February 24, 2015
The midfielder returned to Munich last week, and on Tuesday trained with the ball -- "his best friend" -- for the first time in four months, Bayern announced on their official website.
"It is the next small step on his way to the comeback," the statement read.
Bayern sporting director Matthias Sammer last week vowed to allow Thiago all the time he needs to make a full recovery.
"His rehabilitation training is on schedule," he said. "We will take good care of the lad."