By Daily Sports on June 16, 2019

Philippe Coutinho concedes he has “not performed as expected” during his time at La Liga champions Barcelona.

The 27-year-old has failed to rekindle his Liverpool form following his €160 million (£143m/$180m) switch in January 2018, struggling to make an impact during his first full season at the club.

The attacking midfielder managed only five league goals in 34 appearances last season and failed to nail down a place in the starting XI, with 12 of his league outings coming from the bench.

Coutinho’s underwhelming form has seen him become a target for Barca supporters who have jeered him on several occasions, while media reports have linked him with a move.

He put his club woes to one side on Saturday, though, scoring twice as Brazil opened their Copa America campaign with a comfortable 3-0 win over Bolivia.

Speaking after the game, Coutinho admitted that things have not going according to plan during his time in Spain.

Asked by reporters if he had a message for Barca's fans, Coutinho said: “I do not have much to say to them; I am grateful for all the support that I have always received.

“I had a tough time on the field because I have not performed as expected, but football is like that and I’m working hard to improve.”

Speaking about his role in Brazil’s opening win of the tournament, he added: “It’s a very happy day to have scored two goals, to have helped the team and come out with a victory.”

Brazil’s next Group A game is against Venezuela on Wednesday.

Coutinho’s future at Barca remains uncertain though, with Goal reporting that the Catalans would consider a sale if a suitable bid is made.

As many as 12 first-team players are expendable at the club over the summer, including the likes of Samuel Umtiti, Ivan Rakitic and Netherlands goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen. (BBC)

•Photo shows Philippe Coutinho

Source Daily Sports

Posted June 16, 2019

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