Coutinho’s start at Barcelona has left Messi unimpressed

Reports in Spain claim that some of Philippe Coutinho’s team-mates have been left disappointed with his start at Barcelona.

One in particular is superstar Lionel Messi, with Diario Gol claiming that the Argentinian is unimpressed by the hot and cold nature of Coutinho’s displays.

Coutinho joined Barca from Premier League side Liverpool in the January transfer window for a fee that could eventually rise to £142million.

The report continues by saying that another former Reds star, Luis Suarez, has pleaded with Messi to give Coutinho time to acclimatise to his new surroundings and a new league.

The Brazilian was one of the best players in the Premier League over the last couple of seasons but the pressure of a big fee could have had a bearing on his performances.

Coutinho has two goals and three assists in 11 La Liga appearances for the Catalan giants so far this campaign but fans will be expecting a bigger impact once he adjusts to the club.

Liverpool have gone from strength to strength since the 25-year-old left the club, as they look likely to qualify for the last four of the Champions League, while they have almost made sure of a top four finish in the Premier League.

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