Liverpool’s dip in form since losing Philippe Coutinho to injury has been significant. Though he only joined the club last January, he’s already established himself as a key member of this team and a vital part of the Reds renaissance.
The little Brazilian is so good that it’s hard to see why Inter Milan were willing to let him go. At just 21-years-old, he’s bizarrely composed on the ball and has a way of weaving through crowds, finding space and picking out a pass.
It’s the speed and accuracy of his passing that’s most impressive. The way he pings the ball out, directly into the feet of the likes of Daniel Sturridge, is what drove the Reds forward throughout the start of this season.
With Steven Gerrard getting on in years, it’s great to see a player step-up and take charge. The fact that he’s so young is even more exciting. If Liverpool keep hold of him for three-or-four more years, they’ll have a real star on their hands.
But if he continues to develop, there’s a chance that the Reds will struggled to keep hold of him. Whilst Liverpool are a big club, with a big reputation, they don’t necessarily have the financial backing of Premier League sides like Manchester City and Chelsea.
If somebody came in with a big offer and tempted Coutinho away, they might have to wave goodbye to the Brazilian.
According to The Mirror, Atletico Madrid will revive their interest in Coutinho if they manage to qualify for the Champions League knockout stage this season.
As Liverpool went in for Madrid’s Diego Costa last summer (who has been in excellent form this season), I’m sure this will stir up plenty of stories about potential swap deals.
But the Reds don’t need Costa. They don’t need another forward. Luis Suarez is arguably the best striker in the world. Daniel Sturridge has come on leaps and bounds since moving to Anfield and is in fine goal-scoring form. Iago Aspas looks like a good third choice option.
What Liverpool need is creativity in their midfield and service for their strikers. Coutinho provides them with this. To send him packing would be nothing short of a grievous error of judgement.
Unless Madrid are willing to offer an obscene sum of money, Brendan Rodgers should stay well clear of this one.
What’s your take? Should Liverpool consider cashing in on Philippe Coutinho?
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