4 reasons why Philippe Coutinho is struggling at Barcelona at the moment

#3 Stiff competition for places

Arthur is the latest jewel in the Barcelona midfield

The Barcelona midfield over the last decade has been one of the greatest in the history of football, with Xavi and Iniesta holding it down in the middle in a manner which only a few (if any) have done before them.

Even after the departure of the iconic pair, Barcelona still boasts substantial talent in the middle of the pack, with Rakitic and Sergio Busquets among the best in the world in their respective positions.

Added to the sure starter pair mentioned above is the latest maestro form Brazil, the 22-year-old Arthur Melo who was signed in the summer from Gremio and has slotted in seamlessly to the Barcelona midfield, with many including the icon himself comparing him to the legendary Xavi.

Also, factor in Arturo Vidal who was brought in from Bayern in the summer and adds grit, steel and industry to the Barca midfield and you find out that breaking into the starting lineup as a midfielder at Barcelona is no mean feat even for a player of Coutinho's considerable talents.