Club legend Rivaldo has suggested that Lionel Messi's status at Barcelona has partly led to Philippe Coutinho failing to impress at Camp Nou.
Despite contributing 21 goals from 76 outings in all competitions, Coutinho was loaned out to Bayern Munich last summer, seemingly left with no future at the Catalan giants.
Rivaldo feels that the presence of Messi undermined the Brazilian's ability, leading to a negative impression being made on the club's supporters.
Speaking to Betfair, the former playmaker said: "It's never easy to find your space in a team where Lionel Messi constantly takes all the credit and responsibility.
"There are few players in the world capable of reaching such a situation and imposing themselves, and maybe Coutinho didn't have enough patience to find his spot in the team.
"The Argentinian star is the team leader and will keep playing at his best level for about three or four more years, so it is difficult to see other players shining at their best at Barcelona."
Barcelona are said to be open to offers for Coutinho, who has been linked with Chelsea and Newcastle United in recent weeks.
Darren Plant
