'Other clubs wanted Coutinho, he's one of the best in the world'
Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu was full of praise for Philippe Coutinho after the playmaker completed his move to the club on Monday.
"It brings us great pleasure to introduce Coutinho to all the Barca fans around the world. We've been trying to sign him since last summer. Our technical team, including Pep Segura and Robert Fernandez have been telling us for months that is was essential that we sign him," Bartomeu explained.
"It hasn't been easy and it has taken a lot of work. The important thing is that he wanted to come. He was patient and he made an effort to be here," he continued.
Furthermore, Bartomeu was quick to point out that other clubs were interested in the Brazilian, saying: "He arrives at our club as one of the best players in the world and we're very happy. Other clubs were interested in Coutinho, but he's here and he'll now form part of Ernesto Valverde's project."
The Barca chief hailed Coutinho for his determination to see through a move. "Coutinho arrived surrounded by family members, something that shows that both him and those close to him wanted the move to become a reality. We want to thank him for his determination," he added.
Finally, Bartomeu also had some words of thanks for Liverpool. "I want to thank Liverpool, who are one of the best clubs in Europe. Eventually, we sat down and came to an agreement. Without their willingness to negotiate this wouldn't have been possible," he concluded.