Philippe Coutinho returns to Barcelona
After the treble-winning season, FC Bayern says “Thank you” and “Goodbye, take care” to Philippe Coutinho. The Brazil international, who joined Bayern on loan from Barcelona last August, returns to the Catalan side following the expiration of his season-long deal.
Due to the suspension of matches resulting from the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdown, the 28-year-old attacking midfielder’s contract at Bayern was extended to cover the end of the Champions League finals tournament in Lisbon.
“We would like to thank Philippe Coutinho very much. With his creativity and excellent technique, he has invigorated our game during this treble-winning season,” CEO Karl-Heinz Rummeniggesaid in bidding the Brazilian farewell.
“Even though FC Bayern and Philippe Coutinho are parting ways after just one season, his commitment in Munich has made it clear what an outstanding player he is,” board member for sport Hasan Salihamidžić added.
Especially in the quarter-finals of the Champions League against Barcelona, where he scored two goals and provided an assist in just 15 minutes after coming off the bench, he “proved that it was a good decision to sign him on loan.
We all wish Philippe the best for his career going forward,” said Rummenigge. “Unfortunately, he could not be used more often due to injuries and an operation,” added Salihamidžić, “but he can be rightly proud of his contribution to the treble, especially in the Champions League finals tournament in Lisbon. All the best for the future, Philippe!”
In the quarter-finals of the Champions League, Coutinho scored twice and assisted once against parent club FC Barcelona.
In the 2019/20 season, Coutinho made 38 competitive appearances for FCB. He scored 11 goals and provided nine assists. In the Champions League, he was one of only three Munich players who featured in all 11 matches. He now returns to Barcelona with a historic treble of Bundesliga, DFB Cup and Champions League titles in his bags.
