Philippe Coutinho reacts after sealing the move to Bayern Munich
Brazil international Philippe Coutinho has admitted that things did not work out at Barcelona and he is now focused on succeeding with Bayern Munich. The Brazil international recently joined the Bavarian giants on a season-long loan from the Blaugrana but the Munich giants have the option of landing him on a permanent basis.
Speaking during his unveiling, Coutinho acknowledged that he did not have the best of times at the Camp Nou and he is looking to make amends after making the switch to the Bundesliga holders, he said: “Concerning Barcelona, things didn't work out the way we wanted. But that's the past. This is a new club, a big club, an important club. I hope I'll be here for a long time and win lots of titles.”
Still, he had no negatives to say about the time with the Catalans and admitted that there were no doubts when Bayern approached for his services, he added: “Within those years I did have great experiences. I learnt a lot, won a lot with that club and then we had the Copa America, which I won with Brazil and that was really important. Now I have a chance at a new club, a big club. I didn't have any doubts when Hasan [Salihamidzic, Bayern sporting director] called me.”
Bayern have not made the best of beginnings to the season after the German Super Cup defeat to Borussia Dortmund which has been followed by a 2-2 draw against Hertha Berlin in the league opener. However, they should be able to turn things around during the forthcoming weeks with both Coutinho and Ivan Perisic expected to bolster the attack front.
Similarly to Coutinho, Perisic has arrived on an initial loan move from Inter Milan. The Croatian has previously worked under Niko Kovac at the national level and should be able to adapt quickly to the manager’s style of play.