Bayern Munich's Thiago Alcantara: 'I have big plans for this season'

Bayern Munich's oft-forgotten midfield maestro Thiago Alcantara is healthy for the first time in years and vows to finally make an impact with the defending Bundesliga champions.

In an interview with Bayern's official website during the club's preseason tour in China, the diminutive Spaniard expressed frustrations with his last few injury-riddled campaigns.

"I missed almost a year of action and for that reason it feels as if I'm only just starting my second season at Bayern, really. I'm back 100 percent fit again now and I have big plans for this season."

Despite being focused on regaining the form he exhibited in limited appearances for Barcelona prior to his transfer to the German giants in 2013, Thiago understands that any successful club is a sum of its parts.

"It's not about me. I'm only a small part of this phenomenal team. I'm here to win matches and silverware with Bayern and of course our aim is to win as much as possible."

Because of his recurring knee issues, Thiago only made 11 appearances in all competitions for Bayern, scoring two goals in four Champions League matches.

Bayern's Bundesliga title defense starts Aug. 14, when it hosts Hamburger SV at the Allianz Arena.