Barcelona head coach Ernesto Valverde commented on the absence of midfielder Philippe Coutinho in the starting line-up for the match against Eibar.

On the eve of Barcelona in the 24th round The examples beat Eibar with a score 2: 0, while the expensive team rookie Filipe Coutinho appeared on the field only in the second half, replacing Andres Iniesta.

His decision not to engage the Brazilian from the first minute, the coach of the "blue-garnet" Ernesto Valverde explained after the match.

"I did not release Coutinho in the starting lineup, because it was the best option to win," - said the coach.

"Last week Philippe came out at the base, and Iniesta stayed in reserve. This time I decided to use Andres from the first minutes of ".

"On Tuesday, we are faced with a serious confrontation, but previously all my thoughts were only about Eibar".

"Coutinho can not play in the Champions League, so in the match with Chelsea we will have to do without him. Nevertheless, we will think of something, "- summed up Valverde.

Since the transition to Barcelona, ??Coutinho has participated in 4 matches of La Liga, not having noted in them effective actions.

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