The Brazilian international Philippe Coutinho has dispelled rumors that he wants to leave Aston Villa, calling them “lies” and putting an end to rumors that he is considering doing so.
The former playmaker, who has played for Liverpool and Barcelona, first arrived at Villa Park in January on a temporary loan under Steven Gerrard.
After a productive stint during the off-season, Barca offered a permanent transfer, but Unai Emery took over as manager of the Midlands club after Steven Gerrard was fired in October.
The 30-year-old was reportedly looking to leave his current club in the January transfer window, but Coutinho has debunked those rumors on social media.
“In the last few days I’ve seen a lot of news with my name,” he said in an Instagram post. “The problem is now that some lies have started, and I’m here to clarify.
“Never, and at any moment, [have I] had any kind of conversation asking to leave the club, because I’m happy here and my family [are] too.
“My only focus now that I’ve recovered from injury is to work at the maximum every day, to play [at] a high level, and help the club and my team-mates to achieve our goals.”
As a result of his struggles with form and injuries thus far in the season, Coutinho has been forced to drop out of Brazil’s World Cup roster.
In 19 Premier League games during his initial loan period, he had eight goal involvements (five goals, three assists), but in 13 league games since the move was made permanent, he had none.
