Barcelona 3-1 Rayo Vallecano: 5 Talking Points, La Liga 2018/19

#4 Philippe Coutinho can't get out of his slump

Coutinho did not impress much against Rayo

Big things were expected from Philippe Coutinho when he made the big-money move from Liverpool last January. His first season was satisfactory, but he has failed to pick up the baton this campaign. The Brazilian has not been able to impact games, and the same was seen against Rayo.

Coutinho started the game in attacking role as Ousmane Dembele was rested. He took just two shots and did not create a single chance. Flashes of his chemistry with Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi were seen, but he was unable to carve out anything decisive.

Valverde shifted him to a midfield spot later, as Dembele came on. But he is not suited to the role compared to the likes of Ivan Rakitic and Arturo Vidal. For the time being at least, it looks as though Coutinho will continue to be the backup for Dembele and Messi.