The World Cup-winning former Selecao star feels that the Liverpool man has all the right qualities to slot into the midfield at Camp Nou
Ronaldinho believes that Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho would fit in perfectly at Barcelona.
The Brazil international Coutinho has enjoyed a thoroughly impressive season at Anfield, earning a spot in the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Team of the Year while also being voted as the club’s Player of the Season.
And two-time World Player of the Year Ronaldinho – who won two Liga titles and a Champions League trophy during his time with Barcelona – feels Coutinho would be a great addition for the club, with Xavi heading for the exit this summer and Andres Iniesta heading into the latter stages of his career.
“He has had a fantastic season,” Ronaldinho told The Daily Mail. “He has been one of the best midfield players in Europe. When you realise that he has been playing in a team that has not been performing well, that is an even bigger achievement.
“I can’t speak for him and I can’t speak for Barcelona, but I know what they look for in a player and he has all those qualities.
“After all those years at the club, Xavi has left and Iniesta is now in his 30’s – they will need to address that. That is why I think Barcelona and Coutinho would be the perfect fit.
“Playing with great players makes you better, I know that. Not only would he win trophies with Barca, but playing with Neymar, Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Iniesta is going to make him a better player.”
Coutinho has been included in Dunga’s 23-man Brazil squad for the Copa America and their first game is against Peru in Temuco on June 14.