German club, Bayern Munich have paid tribute to Brazilian star, Philippe Coutinho describing him as outstanding for his role in their treble winning 2019/20 campaign. Coutinho has since returned to Barcelona following his season-long loan deal.
The deal for the 28-year-old was extended to cover the final weeks of the season after the disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
The Bavarians were effusive in their praise for Coutinho as his contributions helped Bayern deliver the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal and Champions League titles for only the second time in their history. Coutinho even came off the bench to score twice and assist another goal in the 8-2 quarter-final destruction of his parent club.
Injury problems and the fine form of Bayern’s other attacking players under Hans Flick restricted Coutinho to just 15 starts in the Bundesliga and five in Europe.
“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,” Bayern CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said in a statement.
Rummenigge added that Coutinho’s impact against Barca “proved that it was a good decision to sign him on loan.
“We all wish Philippe the best for his career going forward.”
Sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic was not left out as he took the time to point out the Brazilian’s importance to the reigning European champions.
“Unfortunately, he could not be used more often due to injuries and an operation, but he can be rightly proud of his contribution to the treble, especially in the Champions League finals tournament in Lisbon.
“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.”
Coutinho has been linked with a return to the Premier League, with Arsenal and Chelsea said to hold an interest in the ex-Liverpool player. However, he could also stay at Barca for 2020-21 should new head coach Ronald Koeman consider him important to his plans.
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