Barcelona News: Barca legend pleads Phillipe Coutinho to stay at the club
What's the story?
Former Barcelona striker Hristo Stoichkov penned a lengthy open letter to the struggling star, Philippe Coutinho and begged him not to leave the club.
In case didn't know...
Phillipe Coutinho joined Barcelona for £142 million from Liverpool in the January transfer window of 2018 and is touted as the natural successor to Andres Iniesta.
It began well enough for the Brazillian at the Camp Nou as he scored 10 goals in 22 appearances during his first half season with the club. However, he suffered from injuries and a poor form this season and started in just 13 LaLiga games.
The Brazillian was linked with a move away from a club last month and was often criticized by fans and pundits for his poor performances.
The heart of the matter
Hristo Stoichkov wrote a letter of support to Coutinho, published in Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo, and pleaded him not to leave the club.
He said:
"Please do not even think about joining another club, which is something I've read might happen in the press.
"There is no other club like ours. That's why they say it's more than a club.
"And anyway, you wouldn't find another club with mates like Messi, Suárez and Co. with whom you have a great time doing what you love most - playing football.
"I wish you all the best, with all of my heart, I am sure that you will make history at Barça."
Stoichkov also revealed the one thing Coutinho needs to do in order to rediscover his confidence.
"You've got a lot of football in you to give Barça and the only thing you should be thinking about is enjoying your game. Enjoy it like you do with Brazil.
"I tried to enjoy playing like I always did with Bulgaria and I ended up enjoying myself exactly the same with Barça."
What's next?
Barcelona will play Real Madrid for the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-finals next and the Brazillian won't get a better opportunity to showcase his talents.