Brazil midfielder Philippe Coutinho counts on Arthur as a teammate at international and club level. It marks the astonishing rise of the 21 year old midfielder, who signed for Barca from Grêmio in July and who is poised for his international debut this week.
Arthur is seen as a long term successor for Andres Iniesta at club level and with Paulinho and Renato Augusto ageing, he is also seen as a potential heir in the Seleção midfield. Coutinho has observed him up close in recent weeks.
“Arthur is a great player, it's a huge pleasure to play with him. Off field he is a great person, and as a player is a great player. He plays simple in the midfield, makes the team click, he is the motor. He does not lose many balls and plays many passes. He's a perfect midfielder.”
Arthur’s presence may see Coutinho move back into the forward line. The ex-Liverpool man played more of a central midfield role at the World Cup to add creativity to the Brazil midfield. Coutinho says he is prepared no matter the role that is asked of him.
“I trained in this other position and always said that it depends on the coach. I always prepare to be able to help and do my best, whatever the position,” he said.