Niko Kovac had high praise for Philippe Coutinho after his impressive Champions League debut for Bayern Munich against Red Star Belgrade.
Bayern Munich returned to winning ways on Wednesday with a dominating performance against Red Star Belgrade in Champions League. The Bundesliga champions cruised to a 3-0 win to get their first three points in the group.
There were many impressive individual performances for Bayern during this game. However, Philippe Coutinho stood out for Die Roten in this game. The Brazilian had his best outing in a Bayern shirt as he was a constant menace in the final third.
Coutinho still had to wait for his first goal for Bayern, but the signs are promising as he is slowly getting back into rhythm. If he continues to improve in this manner, then the goals and assists will start flowing for him.
Niko Kovac was impressed with Coutinho’s performance on Wednesday. Speaking to Sky Sports (via Goal), the Croatian manager admitted that the Brazilian adds a different dimension to Die Roten’s attack. Kovac was also pleased with the way his players responded after the disappointing result against RB Leipzig last weekend.
"“He played a really good game and with his football intelligence he brings another dimension to our game.”“I think we can be very happy. The team has been very focused and we scored three goals, that’s befitting.”"
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Coutinho started in his favored number ten position on Wednesday. The Brazilian will face competition from Thomas Muller in this position, but he will get a decent amount of opportunities to play as a number ten this year. Coutinho is confident that his performances on the pitch will improve for Die Roten as the season progresses.
Bayern will need Coutinho’s intelligence and guile in the final third when they are facing a deep block. His ability to play on the left flank will provide Kovac more tactical flexibility. He struggled to stamp his authority at Barcelona, but a change of scenery at Die Roten might help him to get back to his best form.
Earlier this week, Coutinho told Sky Sports that he has been able to settle down at Bayern quickly due to the family feeling that club imparts on their player. He refused to speak about his future, but he is determined to do his best and repay the faith shown in him by Bayern.
Kovac is likely to stick with Coutinho against FC Koln on Saturday despite Thomas Muller’s late goal against Red Star Belgrade. The defending champions have endured a shaky start to the league campaign, so they cannot afford to drop any more points.