Talk and speculation this week has been on Philippe Coutinho's return to Liverpool. Will he come back bitter and angry over not getting his dream transfer to FC Barcelona? Or will he return with a positive attitude and a commitment to the club? Then there is the questions concerning the manager. Jurgen Klopp historically does not take kind to players not participating with the club or not being fully committed. Just ask Mamadou Sakho who was in Klopp's doghouse for over a year. With the players returning from International duty we can now answer these questions.
The Good - Everyone likes good news, so we will begin with that. Coutinho did return to training with his Liverpool teammates today. All indications are that he also returned with a good attitude and in good spirts. Klopp admitted the two talked and it was said the talks went well. "Nothing else to say, actually, so he's back and we had a really good conversations, so good" the manager said. So with Philippe returning in good spirits and having played in both of Brazil's World Cup qualifiers during the break it is a safe bet he returns to start for Liverpool, right? Not so fast.
The Bad - When asked about Coutinho returning for the Manchester City game, Klopp stated that "doesn't make sense." So, there is a good chance we will not see the Brazilian playmaker against City. Perhaps this is punishment for his tactics in trying to force a transfer out? Is Klopp going down the same road with Coutinho as he did with Sakho? Rest assured Red supporters, there is a much more innocent explanation.
The Reality - If Coutinho does not dress for Saturday's game it will not be a punishment from the club and not a statement from Klopp. It seems the air was adequately cleared and both the manager and player are moving forward together. Rather, this is all about fitness. Yes, Coutinho did play for Brazil. But even his home country had concerns with his fitness which is why he came in off the bench. And remember, games will begin to come fast and furious as the Reds have 7 contests before the next break in October. Plus, with Liverpool off to a good start, it is not like the Klopp is desperate to make changes in an effort to spark the club. No, look for a similar lineup Saturday as has been played during Coutinho's absence. Klopp will take his time with Philippe Coutinho and ensure when he does return he is fully fit.
His comment about it doesn't make sense was simply that even though Coutinho looked good in training today and in the games for Brazil it doesn't make sense to rush him back if not fully fit. When pressed on the topic, Klopp stated "We always have the same decision to make, 'does he need training or can he play?' and all that stuff." . It appears the immediate answer is that he needs additional training.