The alignment of Ernesto Valverde in front of the Athletic Club could be indicativa of a lot of things. One of the facts that called the attention was the fact to plant to Philippe Coutinho like interior by the left, position occupied usually by Andrés Iniesta. Something that can signal the way to be followed of the Brazilian in his future like Barcelona.
In general lines, had been able to see to Coutinho playing as false third forward, usually beside Leo Messi and to Luis Suárez, but his role in front of the Athletic Club was very distinct. Ernesto Valverde bet to the ex of the Liverpool like left interior, accompanying to Ivan Rakitic and to Paulinho in the medullary.
Coutinho, relief generacional
Philippe Coutinho was fichado so that some day become the relief generacional of Andrés Iniesta that, in spite of that keeps on being a key man by his spectacular performance, already has 33 years and does not remain him too time of route like culé. In the long run, the ex of the Liverpool will have to accustom to play of interior for adueñarse of the relief of the mythical player of Fuentealbilla.
In spite of that Andrés Iniesta is one of the best players of the history of the FC Barcelona in particular and of the football in general, Philippe Coutinho has qualities to assume the role of 'boss of operations' in the centre of the field of the team culé. In front of the Athletic Club the Brazilian could play of interior, position that could occupy during the rest of his days like Barcelona.
Iniesta could go in months
The captain of the FC Barcelona had foreseen to abandon the club in the past market veraniego, after a season in which it did not have too weight with Luis Enrique. Nevertheless, the one of Fuentealbilla decided to remain after the arrival of Ernesto Valverde, with the one who has achieved to go back to turn into a fundamental piece. In any case, the powerful offers that have arrived from China could accelerate his course.
In the next months, the manchego will have to decide when will go . If it does it next summer, it will arrive to China to half of season, what can suppose a movement a so much risky. However, if it decides it do the next month of January, will be able to do the pre-season with his future team, a decision that seems more affordable and that would give to Coutinho more time to adapt .