John Henry thinks that Coutinho made a mistake in deciding to leave Anfield.
Coutinho joined Barcelona in January for £142 million, including add-ons, after a move had broken down in the summer. The Brazilian had made it clear that it was his dream move due to the status of the club as well as the style of play and the players currently there such as Lionel Messi. However, this move appears to still irk Henry even though the Reds got a large fee for him. He is using his best moment as owner to focus on Barcelona rather than enjoying the moment.
"John Henry said: “Maybe it’s because I’m an American, but I have a difficult time understanding why anyone would want to leave Liverpool.”“The club is so rich in history and tradition, supported by so many millions around the world, in virtually every country of the world.”“You don’t want to be in the position where players want to go somewhere else, even if it is a great club like Barcelona.”“It’s hard to understand why players would want to go to a league where the competition is so weak. They must play 30 or so meaningless matches per year waiting for Champions League matches.”"
These comments reflect the common assumption that the Premier League is significantly stronger than La Liga and elsewhere. He does acknowledge Barcelona’s status while also criticising the level of competition. The perceived dominance of Barcelona and Real Madrid is seen as a way to belittle La Liga even though they would dominate any league.
Next: Busquets reaches agreement in principle over contract
This argument is fundamentally flawed, though, because it doesn’t take into account Atletico’s achievements, such as the second placed finish and Europa League victory, as well as the title challenges of teams such as Valencia and Sevilla in recent seasons. There’s a reason why Manchester United are the only non-Spanish team to win a European trophy since 2013. Liverpool witnessed that first-hand against Sevilla in the Europa League Final back in 2016.
Too Soon?
More from FC Barcelona News
- Barça boss Xavi to get contract extension
- FC Barcelona planning swoop for Arsenal midfielder
- FC Barcelona tracking 20-year-old goal machine
- Lamine Yamal’s involvement causing tension at FC Barcelona
- How can Xavi unlock Joao Felix for FC Barcelona?
This dig may have come too soon because they are yet to win anything. Reaching the final is impressive, but winning is all that matters. They are also up against a team with top pedigree in this competition. Therefore, he probably should have waited before commenting about Coutinho’s transfer. The Brazilian has still won more trophies than the Reds this season while they could end up trophyless. Saying these comments after securing the Champions League is fair game.
His comments will no doubt please Liverpool fans, and owners will always play up to their own fans. However, the remarks come across as ignorant because he clearly hasn’t watched La Liga or chooses to ignore certain truths. Barcelona did nearly go the entire domestic season unbeaten, but it wasn’t filled with easy games by any means; the fact that it was Levante who ended the streak emphasises the strength of the league.