Jose Mourinho is one who certainly does not shy away from the media when it comes to expressing his opinion. His comments always draw a lot of criticism or support, depending on whether you are on his side or not.
The transfer window was indeed a crazy one. Most of the transfers, that many thought would happen, were wrapped up by deadline day, all bar one.
Philippe Coutinho’s move to Barcelona seemed imminent. His reluctance to return for first team training by citing injury concerns were quashed as he was passed fit to play for Brazil in their mid-week International game. In spite of Barcelona’s tempting offer of £136 million, and Coutinho’s submission of a transfer request; Klopp and Liverpool were stern in their decision to keep the player.
Jose Mourinho spent £89 million on Paul Pogba the previous transfer window and was subjected to a lot of criticism for spending too much money. Mourinho came out all guns blazing by saying the next transfer window will make Paul Pogba look cheap. With Neymar, Dembele and Mbappe going for over a £100 million, his prediction has been bang on.
Regarding the Coutinho saga, he went on to say,
“If the biggest transfer in history had still been Pogba, I think Philippe Coutinho would now be in Barcelona at £101 million”
He also lauded United’s transfer business, saying that it was beneficial to finish off most of the transfer business in the early days of the window. He added,
“People look to the £200 million figure now. Now the players of £20 million became £40 million, the players of £40 million became £60 million and everything changed. Lukaku and Matic, now, would have cost us £200 million in total.”
It still remains to be seen how much of an impact would this have on Phillipe Coutino, who had his heart set on a move to Barcelona. Let’s not forget, Coutinho did resort to feigning an injury in order to initiate negotiations with Barcelona. How would this be dealt by the club internally? Would that count as in-disciplinary action?
The process of reintegrating Coutinho into the first team should be careful and well-thought of. While the player is undoubtedly an important asset for Klopp, he still caused massive disruptions to the fans and embarrassment to Liverpool FC.
Liverpool have gotten off to a flyer, but they will be needing the Brazilian’s expertise as they get involved in the thick of things as the season progresses.
It goes without saying that Barcelona will be back for their man in the next transfer window, but Liverpool and Klopp must ensure that in the time that he’s there, he stays committed to the team’s cause.
