There were few Arsenal transfer targets that split the fan base like Philippe Coutinho. Known for his world-class displays in the Premier League in a Liverpool shirt, his move to Barcelona significant lowered his stock.
To think at the age of 29 he is now trying to restart his career in the English top-flight at Aston Villa represents the right decision made by Arsenal. That said, the Brazilian has come back fighting strong and has four goals and three assists in his nine Premier League games so far.
Arsenal face Villa this Saturday and Coutinho will represent the toughest opponent in Steven Gerrard’s team. The Birmingham-based side have come a long way since the comfortable 3-1 loss to the Gunners at the Emirates last year.
