Liverpool legend Phil Thompson has urged Jurgen Klopp to bring Phillipe Coutinho back to Merseyside this summer. In a recent interview with Sky Sports News, Thompson said, “I would take him back in a heartbeat, but it would have to be now.
“You don’t want to leave it another 12 months, I think he still has the ability.
“He’s suffered at Barcelona. We’ve seen him playing out wide on the left, but he’s not Neymar.
“He’s not a left-winger, and that’s where he’s playing at Barcelona; they don’t love him like Liverpool loved him.”
Coutinho’s Struggles At The Nou Camp This Season
Coutinho has struggled to live up to the high expectations surrounding his arrival at the Nou Camp from Liverpool at the start of last year. The Brazilian playmaker has still not found his identity at the Catalan club so a change in scenery this summer could help him rekindle his career in European football. Maybe a return to Anfield could be the best move for his playing career as he knows the club and it’s supporters well.
However, whether the Reds can afford to bring Coutinho back to Merseyside remains to be seen. The La Liga winger has featured in 53 matches for Barca this term, scoring 11 goals while creating five assists in all competitions.
What Will The Brazilian Playmaker Bring To Merseyside?
At 26, the Brazilian international is about to embark upon the best years of his playing career which the Reds could look to benefit from in the upcoming season.
Even though the Rio de Janeiro born talent has struggled to find confidence in his game this season, the fact remains that Coutinho is a quality player who has previously proven his worth at Anfield. He possesses the ability to open up the meanest of defences with his incredible vision and wide passing range. Coutinho is also an accomplished finisher inside the opposing penalty area and can be a potent goal-threat from long range.
Bringing Back Coutinho: Wise Move For The Reds?
Hence, the acquisition of the Barca outcast will significantly bolster Klopp’s attacking options at the Merseyside club. The South American sensation could be a creative force in midfield who could help Liverpool get over the line and win the Premier League title next season. Thus, Coutinho’s return might be a shrewd move for the Reds if they manage to land him ahead of the new season.
