Barcelona fans were left wondering what number Philippe Coutinho would wear when he signed for the club in January 2018. The Brazilian midfielder joined Barcelona from Liverpool in a blockbuster transfer deal worth approximately €160 million.
As is customary, players are assigned a jersey number upon joining a new club. So, what is Coutinho’s new number in Barcelona? Let’s find out!
The Number 14 Legacy
Traditionally, the number 14 jersey at Barcelona has been synonymous with one player – the legendary Johan Cruyff. The Dutch forward, who played for the club from 1973 to 1978, left an indelible mark on both Barcelona and football as a whole. Known for his exceptional skill and vision, Cruyff was instrumental in shaping Barcelona’s footballing philosophy.
After Cruyff’s departure from the club, other notable players like Thierry Henry and Javier Mascherano donned the number 14 jersey with honor. However, with Coutinho’s arrival, it was clear that a change was on the horizon.
The New Number: 7
Upon joining Barcelona, Philippe Coutinho inherited the coveted number 7 jersey. This iconic number has been worn by some of football’s greatest players, including Lionel Messi and David Villa.
The decision to assign Coutinho the number 7 jersey was not taken lightly.
It signifies the trust that both the club and fans have in his abilities to make an impact on the pitch. The number carries with it an expectation of greatness and success.
Coutinho Embraces Number Change
When asked about his new jersey number, Coutinho expressed his gratitude for being given such an important symbol of Barcelona’s history. He also acknowledged the responsibility that comes with wearing the number 7 shirt.
“I am honored to wear the number 7 jersey at Barcelona. It’s a number that has been worn by some incredible players, and I will do my best to uphold its legacy,” said Coutinho in an interview.
The Impact of the Number Change
Changing jersey numbers can often have a psychological impact on players. It signifies a fresh start and a new chapter in their career. For Coutinho, donning the number 7 jersey is not just about the number itself but also about living up to the expectations associated with it.
Coutinho’s performances so far have shown glimpses of his potential as he adapts to life at Barcelona. With each match, he is slowly cementing his place in the hearts of fans and proving that he is worthy of wearing the prestigious number 7.
In Conclusion
Philippe Coutinho’s new number at Barcelona is 7, a jersey that carries a rich history and high expectations. As he continues to settle into his new surroundings, fans eagerly await his contributions on the pitch.
Only time will tell if Coutinho can leave his mark on Barcelona’s storied legacy, just like those who wore the number before him.