I just can't wrap my head around Barcelona at the minute, and Coutinho is a prime example. He's been a fringe player at Bayern, but that often happens with loan deals. Who are you gonna play, younger players like Gnabry and Coman who actually have a contract with you, vs Coutinho on loan who may be gone next season.
Now look at Barcelona, I can't fathom how Vidal is in that team ahead of Coutinho. And then Pjanic incoming, and Artur heading the other way? A midfield trio of De Jong, Artur and Coutinho, doesn't sound to bad does it. Rakitic and Busquetes as experienced squad options. Certainly would add some much needed energy and hunger you'd have to think.
Seems like someone is pulling all the wrong strings at that club. Coutinho is a quality player, given the chance and I'd back him to do well in any team. Certainly ahead of Vidal, who's a liability more often than not.