3 players who could start for Barca in Ousmane Dembele's absence

#1 Philippe Coutinho

The Brazilian Magician is going to play an important role for Barcelona in all competitions

The life of the former Liverpool superstar has been a tad difficult from the start of this season. At the start of the season, Coutinho was an undisputed starter and Dembele was on the bench. Now ,after 6 months the tables have turned with Dembele being a nailed-on starter and Coutinho on the bench. Injuries have played a prominent part in diminishing the role of Brazilian. Other than that he is suffering from other issues like heavy competition, pressure from fans to fill in Iniesta's shoes, the rise of Ousmane Dembele etc. Despite all of the problems (for me), he is being unfairly criticized.

Philippe Coutinho is that guy who can unlock the most rigid of defences and can turn the game in his team's favour in the blink of the eye. His ability to hit long-range goals, dish out perfect passes for his teammates and his dazzling runs cannot be ignored. He can play in the attack as a winger and in midfield, he is comfortable in any position. He has made 27 appearances for Barcelona and scored 6 goals and contributed with 5 assists.

It is no doubt that Coutinho will return to his best as European football returns next month, with Copa Del Rey quarterfinals on Wednesday and Dembele having his treatment, NOW is the perfect time to strike the red hot iron

Just as a Phoenix burns only to rise from his own ashes, similarly Coutinho is going through a tough phase and he will rise to prove the world that he is one of the best midfielders in the world.