Football fans all over the world now understand that the round ball game is about money and business. It’s a sad reality, but the market is only going to reach new heights down the line.
Yes, every football club needs to balance their books and make some sort of revenue in order to sustain the club as well as following the financial fair play rules. However, a prestigious club such as Liverpool should be telling themselves that now is the time to take a stand against the big boys across Europe.
Philippe Coutinho is the most productive player that Jürgen Klopp has at his disposal. His skill and technique is why Barcelona are willing to fork out $120 million for the Brazilian’s services. The 25-year-old has given so much joy whenever he has stepped onto Anfield.
From Coutinho’s point of view, to replace Neymar and slot into the front three with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez is an opportunity that comes and goes. If he wants to challenge himself and win trophies, then it only makes sense for him. Along with that, he’ll also be learning from the best player in the world.
For Liverpool, this transfer makes absolutely no sense. The Fenway Sports Group have done well to build the club where they are today, so surely the main objective is to push one step further and win the Premier League.
Reports suggest that Coutinho wants to do everything possible to force an exit. If that is the case, the owners must tie him down and do everything they can to keep such a talent instead of letting him throw the toys out of the cot and get his way.
(Dave Howarth/PA via AP)
Inter Milan are a perfect example for Liverpool to follow. With Jose Mourinho admitting that they couldn’t lure Ivan Perisic to Manchester, it was because Inter’s Chinese owners made a stand and stated their goal to keep their best players. The Italian giants have proven it is possible.
Where is the ambition of the club? How will Liverpool replace Coutinho? Is business more important than glory and trophies? These are all valid questions that will be at the back of the minds of supporters who will feel as though they are taking a step backwards.
Ask any Liverpool supporter what they would prefer more, and they would say trophies over money without a doubt. They pay their season tickets and television subscriptions so that they are able to enjoy success over the long run.
If the Fenway Sports Group want to sell their best players and look after their bank account, then what is the point of turning up?
Many clubs around the world have no choice but to sell their best players because they are struggling financially, but Liverpool are not in that position which is what would make me furious if I were a Liverpool fan.
There is no question that football is a business and that money is playing a bigger part than ever. But, even though these two points are true, unfortunately, you don’t win a trophy for being involved in the highest transfer fee, it’s about what happens on the pitch.
It would be a real shame for a club of the size of Liverpool to capitulate and have to start all over again from scratch to build a new team.
I’m worried for them this upcoming season, and if they do happen to be tempted by the money and sell Coutinho, I find it hard to see them finishing in the top six.
You’re better than this, Liverpool.
Christian Montegan
Roar Pro
Liverpool shouldn't let coutinho go without a fight though. If they move him on then it will say a lot about their ambition
steve
Guest
I understand LFC not wanting to let him go but this is something he and his agent have been working towards for a year now. It isn't surprising to anyone at LFC at all. They are fully aware he and his agent have been courting Barcelona. This summer will most likely be the only chance he has to sign for them, they want him as Iniesta's replacement this transfer window. I very much expect that he will be forced to lodge a transfer request to ensure he moves now.
Christian Montegan
Roar Pro
I can see it. Because FSG are so caught up in the financial side of things that they take no real care of what's really important which is success on the pitch
Christian Montegan
Roar Pro
If Barca offer a fee higher than the one they received for Neymar then I can understand, but football is about keeping your best players in order to be successful
Christian Montegan
Roar Pro
It's not Barcelona's fault at all. In fact, they are allowed to persue a player and persuade them to join. Coutinho for me would not want to turn Barca down, but that doesn't mean Liverpool can give up so easily
Christian Montegan
Roar Pro
And if Liverpool do resist then it would show a sign of strength and send a message to the rest of Europe that Liverpool are club who won't get bullied around anymore. It's time for them to take the next step...
steve
Guest
They aren't unsettling Coutinho at all. They are chasing Coutinho because that's what he wants. Coutinho and his agent have been courting Barcelona for 12 months to come and get him because he wants to play for them. I would expect his next move is to hand in a transfer request.
Ed Nixon
Roar Pro
Barca are going to relentless in their pursuit of Coutinho. Liverpool will have to be strong to resist.
Nate
Guest
Barca are showing a complete lack of class here. Failed in their other bids so now trying to unsettle Coutinho so he will force a move. He's under contract, Liverpool said no, go away!
Ben Talintyre
Roar Pro
I can't see Liverpool selling at any price. Unless there's a written request from coutinho to push through a move I can't see Liverpool selling. Premier League is about to start and it wouldn't make any sense to as a replacement would cost a substantial amount and wouldn't fill the void left by Coutinho
Frank
Roar Rookie
It would certainly be a blow for the club but this is what football has become today. If a substantial offer arrives then it's obviously difficult to turn down, but yes I do agree with you that they would be heading in the wrong direction