Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp says ‘everything is okay’ between him and Philippe Coutinho
Written by News on 23/08/2017
Jurgen Klopp insists there is no rift between him and Philippe Coutinho over the Brazilian’s failed attempt to force through a move to Barcelona.
Barcelona have had three bids rejected for attacking midfielder Coutinho this summer. Their latest offer – worth up to £118m – would have seen the 25-year-old become the second most expensive player in history.
The Catalan club saw a final deadline of 7pm on Sunday pass with Liverpool’s owners staying true to their word that their prized asset is not available for transfer.
And speaking ahead of the second leg of Liverpool’s Champions League qualifier against Hoffenheim, Klopp said his relationship with Coutinho has been in no way damaged by the Brazilian’s desire to leave Anfield.
"Of course, everything is okay between me and him," Klopp said. "Absolutely. 100 per cent.
"I never give any comment to whatever’s written or said but it’s 100 per cent clear that nothing’s changed.
"I said already, my English is not good enough to give five different answers and always the same question, so nothing changed."
Coutinho is yet to feature this season due to a back injury picked up in pre-season and will once again be unavailable when the Reds host Hoffenheim on Wednesday night.
Klopp revealed that Coutinho is also suffering from a sickness bug and is unsure when he will return.
"He can’t start tomorrow because on top of that, he’s now ill," the German added.
"It will take time because he has not trained for a long time. I’ve no idea at this moment (when he will return), we would have to check when he is back."
Liverpool take a 2-1 lead into Wednesday night’s return leg at Anfield after a stunning free-kick from Trent Alexander-Arnold and a Havard Nordtveit own goal secured victory in Germany.
Watch Liverpool v Arsenal on Super Sunday. Coverage begins on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League at 3:30pm, after West Brom v Stoke.
(c) Sky News 2017: Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp says ‘everything is okay’ between him and Philippe Coutinho
