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What The Spanish Media Have Said About Philippe Coutinho's First Year At Barcelona

What The Spanish Media Have Said About Philippe Coutinho's First Year At Barcelona

He joined from Liverpool for a huge transfer fee.

Nasir Jabbar

Nasir Jabbar

It's been a year since Philippe Coutinho signed for Barcelona, and it's fair to say it hasn't quite worked out.

That sentiment is echoed by Spanish outlet Marca who have issued a report card for Philippe Coutinho.

Barcelona were hoping to seal the Brazilian to a contract in the summer of 2017 but they eventually got the deal done in January 2018.

The La Liga club shelled out a whopping £105 million. Though it could rise to as much as £142 million if certain clauses are met.

Image: PA
Image: PA

He played 18 league games, chipping in with eight goals as Barcelona won the Spanish title in his debut season. This term, he's featured in 15 league appearances and bagged four goals.

However, Marca believe he's had a 'difficult first year' at Camp Nou and have also said 'he has underwhelmed to an extent'.

But the publication does acknowledge his age and potential whilst also adding 'it is just the inconsistency that has differentiated him from other superstar players.'

Image: Marca
Image: Marca

Of late, Coutinho has failed to nail down a spot in Ernesto Valverde's starting XI. Losing out on a place to Ousmane Dembele in attack.

He's unable to sneak into the midfield, too. The likes of Arturo Vidal, Ivan Rakitic and Sergio Busquest have kept him out of the side.

Image: PA
Image: PA

Marca sign off by claiming 'Coutinho needs to step up and become the player that both him and Barcelona want him to be'.

Will he come good?

Let us know what you think in the comment section below.

Featured Image Credit:

Topics: Liverpool, Football News, Transfer, Football, Barcelona, Philippe Coutinho, Brazil, Camp Nou