Phillipe Coutinho was an icon for Liverpool as he proved to be one of the best players during his time in the Premier League. However, it didn’t go down well with him after a big money move to Barcelona two years ago.
Coutinho opted for a loan move to German giants Bayern Munich, but also failed to impress in the Bundesliga. Brazil legend Rivaldo, has revealed that he still believes in Coutinho and has urged him to grab his Barcelona opportunity well if he returns back to the club.
Chelsea have been linked with a move for Coutinho as well, and Rivaldo also believes that a Premier League return could be good for the midfielder.
“It looks like Bayern Munich won’t pay Philippe Coutinho’s option clause at the end of the season and the player is likely to return to Barcelona,” Rivaldo told Betfair.
“I always thought Coutinho would adapt better to Spanish football than German, as there are some language and lifestyle issues that could be a little different for a Brazilian in Germany. “Unfortunately, it hasn’t gone well for the player in either league and he will be returning to Barcelona. It’s up to the club and manager to decide whether he is going to have another chance next season or not.
“If the chance comes, Coutinho really needs to step up and show the great player he is, just like he did in England with Liverpool and has done with the Brazilian national team for which he is still an important player.
“I believing in his qualities and think much will depend on his will and mental strength. He must prove that others were wrong to write him off and that he can still make the difference for any team. “Playing for Barcelona is a unique chance for a player and perhaps Coutinho’s experience in the Bundesliga has made him wake up and see that Barca could be the right place for him.
“Of course, it might not turn out to be the case and he could join a Premier League club (Chelsea seems interested). Barça might prefer to get back some of his investment in the player.