Coutinho wears a lucky bracelet given to him by Messi nearly three years ago.
Messi received this bracelet from journalist Rama Pantarotto after missing a penalty in Argentina’s 1-1 draw with Iceland in the first round of the 2018 World Cup group stage.
The Argentinian star then held the bracelet, while wearing it around his ankle.
This lucky bracelet originally belonged to Rama Pantarotto’s mother.
Even though he has not been able to overcome the most difficult period of his career, Coutinho still appreciates Messi’s gift.
`Coutinho is a great talent. Aston Villa is lucky to own him, and at the right time, Coutinho will be on the field,` Gerrard said at Coutinho’s introduction ceremony.
After loaning Coutinho until the end of the season, Aston Villa recruited left back Lucas Digne from Everton for 30 million USD.
Coutinho started his career at Vasco da Gama (Brazil) and played three seasons for Inter Milan, before landing at Liverpool in 2013. With the Anfield team, he scored 54 goals in 201 matches, and became one of the top players.
In January 2018, Coutinho joined Barca under the most expensive contract in the club’s history: 140 million USD.
Coutinho has a contract with Barca until June 2023, and will play for Aston Villa on loan until the end of this season.
Lucas Digne also played for Barca in the period 2016-2018.
