Coutinho: I don’t like Iniesta comparisons

Posted Monday, September 24, 2018 by squawka.com

Barcelona playmaker Philippe Coutinho has rejected comparisons to Andres Iniesta saying he wants to be his own player.

The Brazil international swapped Anfield for the Nou Camp in January, and after a successful season with the Catalans, he's being touted as a long-term replacement for Iniesta who left Barca to play in Japan this summer.

Coutinho has occupied the space vacated by Iniesta on the left side of Barcelona's midfield, but the playmaker has resisted any comparisons with the World Cup winner.

"Andres was a genius, so I don't like comparisons between us," Coutinho told reporters, as cited by Diario AS.

"Separately, I want to be my own player and continue to improve as much as I can, to win as many trophies as possible.

"I need to continue to work hard on every aspect of my game and performances, to be able to adapt and continue to switch between a playmaking role and playing from the left."

Coutinho added that the comparisons to Iniesta are inaccurate because the Spanish legend did not have to work on his game.

"That is why I cannot be compared to Andres Iniesta, he was a master of the game and did not have to work on anything, he was at the peak.

"I need to try and contribute more goals, provide more assists and adapt to what the Coach wants me to do."

Coutinho and Barcelona are next in action against Girona on Sunday.