Philippe Coutinho’s career took an unexpected turn after his high-profile departure from Liverpool in 2018. Once a dazzling talent in the Premier League and a key player under Jurgen Klopp, Coutinho’s form had Europe’s top clubs vying for his signature. Barcelona eventually secured his services for a staggering $180 million (£142m), a move Coutinho described as a “dream” come true. For Liverpool, the financial windfall from the deal led to significant reinvestment, culminating in Premier League and Champions League success.
However, it wasn’t just Barcelona that had their eyes on Coutinho. Paris Saint-Germain, fresh off acquiring stars Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, was keen to add Coutinho to their ranks. Spanish media reported that Neymar attempted to persuade Coutinho via WhatsApp to join him at PSG rather than return to Barcelona. These WhatsApp messages were seemingly ignored, and Coutinho proceeded with his transfer to Barcelona. Liverpool negotiated a stunning deal, the impact of which is still felt today.
While the move benefitted Liverpool, Coutinho may wish he had listened to Neymar and considered PSG. His initial stint at Barcelona seemed promising, with 10 goals in his first 22 appearances. However, a less impressive haul of 11 goals over 54 games in the subsequent season signaled a downturn. Coutinho’s role at Barcelona was reduced to a bit-part player, and he was loaned out to Bayern Munich for the 2019/20 season. Despite a successful stint, Bayern decided not to make his move permanent.
Interestingly, a return to the Premier League reignited Coutinho’s career. A reunion with Anfield legend Steven Gerrard at Aston Villa led to a fruitful six-month loan spell, which eventually turned into a permanent deal. However, shortly after escaping his Barcelona nightmare, Coutinho faded into obscurity again. He struggled to replicate his sparkling form during his first full season at Villa Park and entered the 2023/24 season on the outskirts of Unai Emery’s plans.
With little interest in his services, Coutinho joined the wave of stars moving to the Middle East late in the transfer window. Instead of landing in the Saudi Pro League, Coutinho ended up in the Qatar Stars League with Al Duhail. Now 31 and in his prime, Coutinho’s skills should be showcased on a much grander stage. However, his recent choices mean it’s unlikely that will happen anytime soon. A move back to Brazil to join boyhood club Vasco da Gama now appears the most likely next step.
