According to ESPN reporter Sam Marsden, a source close to Philippe Coutinho has confirmed interest coming from AC Milan. The ESPN piece focuses on Barcelona’s current financial issues, and how a sale of Coutinho (and his hefty wages) will be crucial in Barcelona re-signing Lionel Messi and the plethora of free-agent stars they acquired such as Sergio Aguero, Memphis Depay, and Eric Garcia.
AC Milan Show Interest in Philippe Coutinho
Philippe Coutinho’s Track Record
Coutinho has been through a large share of ups and downs since departing Liverpool. He rose to fame at Inter Milan and ascended to near superstardom at Liverpool, but things haven’t been quite as bright since then.
In his first Barcelona season, 2017/18, Coutinho scored seven goals and provided six assists in 18 La Liga appearances. The following season, the Brazilian scored five goals and provided two assists in 34 league appearances while scoring three times and providing three assists in 12 Champions League matches.
In 2019/20, Coutinho was sent on loan to Bayern Munich where he remained a meaningful player. In 23 Bundesliga appearances, Coutinho scored eight goals and had six assists. While winning the Champions League, Coutinho scored three goals and had three assists in 11 appearances.
This past season, back at Barcelona, was deterred by injury for the Brazilian. He has not played since December, but scored two goals and had two assists in 12 La Liga matches.
Coutinho often receives an ‘overrated’ tag due to his high transfer fee to Barcelona, but in all actuality, he’s still very talented.
The Fit at AC Milan
Coutinho is an instant starter at Milan. The Rossoneri are still actively trying to replace Hakan Calhanoglu. Not only is Coutinho a better option, but he brings strong European experience to a squad returning to the Champions League.
The Brazilian is also versatile. At Milan, he’d likely feature as the starting attacking midfielder. He can, however, play both wing positions. This is beneficial to Milan because they can use Brahim Diaz as their central option and deploy Coutinho on the wing should there be any injuries or suspensions to other wingers.
Coutinho remains a “big name” in football. He’s also 29-years-old with plenty left in the tank. This change of pace and scenery will greatly benefit both the club and the player.
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