FC Barcelona 1-0 Atletico Madrid: 5 Talking Points

#4 A disappointing outing for Philippe Coutinho

Coutinho left a lot to be desired with his display

Ernesto Valverde has employed his side predominantly in a 4-4-2 formation this season. With Iniesta starting this game from the left, Philippe Coutinho was forced to start the game from the right flank. The Brazilian has not played in that position and looked short of confidence on the night.

He took the majority of his decisions hastily and was not at his fluent best on the right wing. Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets were often seen suggesting him to cut inside and get more involved in the game. But when Iniesta was substituted with a hamstring injury, Coutinho came back to his favoured left wing position.

His performance somewhat improved as he instantly looked threatening while running with the ball. But his decision making was poor on the night as he lost as many as 12 duels and was dispossessed four times. The former Liverpool man is still in his settling period at a new club and it will take time to adjust to the demands of playing for FC Barcelona.