Coutinho will join Barcelona ―Ronaldinho

Coutinho had his heart set on a move to Barcelona this summer.

Brazil and Barcelona legend Ronaldinho believes Liverpool playmaker Philippe Coutinho will get his dream move to the Camp Nou eventually.

Coutinho was the subject of three huge bids from Barcelona this summer and handed in a transfer request to try and force his way out of Anfield.

However, Liverpool played hardball and eventually managed to keep hold of their star man, and he could now make his first appearance of the season for the Reds against Manchester City on Saturday.

Ronaldinho, one of the biggest names in world football and former Barcelona midfielder himself, said of Coutinho

‘He made it clear that he wanted to join Barcelona this summer – he will be disappointed as it is a dream for players to want to play for Barcelona – but I am sure he will still get that chance.

‘They made it clear how much they wanted him and I am sure they will come back for him.’

After a summer of speculation raising doubts over the 25-year-old’s future at Anfield, there are rumours that Coutinho could go on strike.

Ronaldinho insists this will not be the case and has given some reassurance to Liverpool fans.

He added: ‘This season they will see him give everything for the club – that is the sort of player he is.

‘Also no player is going to refuse to play when it’s the World Cup at the end of the season.

‘The Liverpool fans have nothing to worry about – I do not believe any of the stories about him refusing to play for the club. I know him and that is not his way.’

Sporting Tribune