Coutinho breaks silence on failed Barca move

Liverpool’s Philippe Coutinho reveals that he was interested in joining Catalan giants FC Barcelona.

While speaking to ESPN Brazil, the midfielder spoke for the first time about his failed move.

"I had a professional offer and in life these can sometimes be interesting.

“As everyone knows I was keen on the move as was my family and it was an honour to receive an offer from a prestigious club such as Barcelona but at the same time it's also an honour to play here, Liverpool are a massive club and respected throughout the world.

“Now that i'm here, I'll give my best as always,” Coutinho remarked after his team’s 1-1 draw against Burnley.

The midfielder revolted against the club despite manager’s Jurgen Klopps insistence that Coutinho was not for sale.

Coutinho made his first Liverpool start this season but had to be substituted in the closing stages following what appears to be a cramp.

Coutinho said that he was now focused on performing for Liverpool and Brazil national team but admitted that the transfer saga was a difficult moment for him.

"It was a difficult month for me but it's now in the past. My objective is to play well and help the team. My thoughts are focused on Liverpool and the Brazilian national side".

Barcelona had been seeking an attacking midfielder to support the aging Andres Iniests after Neymar's move to PSG. Liverpool were firm in their stand and in the end Barcelona and Liverpool could not agree on a deal.