Philippe Coutinho was statistically the highest rated player in the Premier League before his departure a couple of weeks ago.
The brilliant Brazilian was Liverpool’s heart beat in midfield, registering seven goals and six assists in 13 starts for the Reds and recording a WhoScored rating of 8.03.
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That sat him comfortably clear of Kevin De Bruyne (7.91) in second and Harry Kane (7.85) in third.
But his Barcelona career didn’t begin so brightly.
After completing his £145m move from Anfield, Coutinho had to wait to make his bow following a pesky thigh injury.
His moment finally came on Sunday against Alaves in La Liga – but it didn’t quite go to plan.
After impressing in a cameo as a substitute in midweek against Espanyol, Coutinho produced statistically his worst display of the season with a measly rating of just 6.24.
The 25-year-old was unable to stamp his authority on the game and was hooked after 66 minutes when they were trailing 1-0.
Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi came to the rescue with two late goals to snatch victory, both while Coutinho was off the pitch.
And his full debut will be remembered more for a painful-looking fall in the first half rather than the usual sparking tricks and flicks.
Let’s just say things can only get better.
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