3 reasons Liverpool could thrive without Philippe Coutinho

Dejan Lovren still looks unconvincing alongside Joel Matip in central defence. Third-choice centre-back Ragnar Klavan struggles against quality opposition. And Simon Mignolet is prone to mistakes in goal.

A few smart defensive purchases would improve Liverpool overall.

Go Gegenpressing

Jurgen Klopp isn’t wedded to the idea of having a playmaker in his side, even one as gifted as Coutinho.

Klopp believes his gegenpressing style can be more effective than relying on any individual to produce moments of inspiration.

Speaking in December 2016, he said: “No playmaker in the world can be as good as a good counter-pressing situation.”

He believes that winning the ball high up the pitch catches defences out of position and gives his own side a great chance to score.

For all of his talent, Coutinho isn’t a natural fit in a high-tempo, pressing system.

Midfield Balance

Mohamed Salah’s arrival this summer means Liverpool are less reliant on Sadio Mane’s pace in wide areas.

The attacking trio of Salah, Mane and Roberto Firmino gives the team real dynamism up front, which means Coutinho is now more suited to a deeper midfield role in Klopp’s 4-3-3.

Coutinho is still Liverpool’s best option to unlock defences that are happy to sit deep. However, it’s risky to select him there in tight games against top teams as he can be exposed defensively.

Additionally, a solid midfield base that can back up the pressing from the front is better suited to Liverpool’s game.

Klopp has plenty of midfield options that fit that mould. Jordan Henderson, Emre Can, Georginio Wijnaldum, James Milner and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain can all play there. And the imperious Naby Keita will arrive next year.

Coutinho would undoubtedly be missed if he does leave. But his departure could allow the manager to truly shape the team in his image.

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