UEFA Champions League 2018/2019: 5 players to watch out for in second round on Matchday 3

Modified Oct 24, 2018 15:02 GMT

#2 Philippe Coutinho

Following Messi's unfortunate injury sustained against Sevilla which ruled him out for three weeks, Coutinho is one of the players who Barcelona would look to mount the saddle of responsibility.

The 26-year-old is the costliest player in Barcelona's history and was signed to replace legendary midfielder Andres Iniesta.

Since his January arrival, the Brazilian has fitted in seamlessly with the Blaugrana system, as his unique skillset offers a different dimension to the Barcelona attack.

He has scored three goals so far this season in LaLiga, but is yet to get off the mark in the Champions League.

Coutinho would come up against one of his former teams at Camp Nou, as he spent five years at San Siro between 2008 and 2013, although he failed to nail a spot in the first team, making just 28 league appearances before his transfer to Liverpool with whom he went on to become a world class player.

Messi's absence puts a greater weight of expectation on Coutinho's shoulders, and this alongside the drive to prove himself against the club that didn't give him an opportunity would spur him to go all out and showcase his abilities.

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Edited by Vikshith R