Player wants to show “great work” with Aston Villa to keep his dream alive

Philippe Coutinho’s chances of going to the World Cup remain very much in the balance.

Having managed to find some of his best form when moving on loan from Barcelona to Aston Villa, the Brazilian has found it difficult to keep the level up since his permanent transfer to the Premier League side.

So far this season he’s put together 440 minutes across eight league games, and is yet to contribute a goal or an assist. Things will need to change quickly, potentially starting this evening against Nottingham Forest, if he’s to convince Tite to pick him for Qatar.

Tite has long been a fan of the former Liverpool player, so he has that on his side. However, Coutinho is aware he needs to be impressing for Aston Villa if he’s to keep the dream alive.

Speaking to ESPN Brasil, he said: “It is certainly a great goal, a dream of every player, to be champion for their country. I had the opportunity to participate in the last World Cup, we ended up losing, now the desire is even greater. I have to show great work at my club to have the opportunity to be there.”

On his general feelings since signing for Aston Villa, Coutinho made it very clear he’s been pleased with the move: “Yes, very happy. Me and my family. Important step in my career, our lives. It’s a great club, great goals.”