Philippe Coutinho could challenge Neymar as Brazil's leader, says Rivaldo
Coutinho is expected to join Barcelona today, with some reports suggesting he could be unveiled at 7pm after a fee was agreed.
Coutinho is in Brazil and has submitted a transfer request after Liverpool rejected bids earlier this summer.
Liverpool have knocked back three offers from Barcelona but they are set to return with another today in the hope to land him before the deadline shuts.
And Rivaldo thinks Coutinho could challenge Neymar as Brazil’s main man if he joins an elite club in Barcelona.
Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho BACK in full training for Brazil
If you play for an elite club you will certainly see your status raised at the national team, which could lead to some split of responsibilities with Neymar
Rivaldo on Philippe Coutinho
“Neymar is still "the man" for Brazil and he is doing an excellent job for the national team as we saw at the Olympics,” Rivaldo said in his Betfair column.
“Considering all that he has achieved since his move from Santos to Barcelona, it's difficult to contest Neymar's leadership of the team but the potential move of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona might change that situation.
“As we all know Barcelona are at the top of the football world - not disrespecting Liverpool - and only two or three teams can be talked about in those terms.
“If you play for an elite club you will certainly see your status raised at the national team, which could lead to some split of responsibilities with Neymar. Anyway, not much longer to wait to see if Coutinho does make the move…”
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