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With James Rodriguez (l.) back at Real Madrid, Philippe Coutinho (r.) is expected to shoulder playmaking duties in the Bayern Munich midfield.
With James Rodriguez (l.) back at Real Madrid, Philippe Coutinho (r.) is expected to shoulder playmaking duties in the Bayern Munich midfield. - © getty images
With James Rodriguez (l.) back at Real Madrid, Philippe Coutinho (r.) is expected to shoulder playmaking duties in the Bayern Munich midfield. - © getty images
bundesliga

"Philippe Coutinho what Bayern Munich needed after James Rodriguez departure" - Rafinha

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Former Bayern Munich defender Rafinha says Brazilian compatriot Philippe Coutinho is a "brilliant player" and the ideal man to pick up the baton from James Rodriguez.

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Coutinho has joined Bayern on a season-long loan from Barcelona, while Colombian wizard James spent two years in Munich before returning to parent club Real Madrid earlier this summer, having produced 14 goals and 15 assists in 43 Bundesliga appearances between August 2017 and May 2019.

Ushering in one versatile and cultured big name for another, Rafinha believes it's a win-win for the record champions, as he explained to Bild.

"After James left, Bayern needed another top star in midfield," said the Brazilian, who also left the club at the end of the 2018/19 season following a decorated eight-year stay.

"Philippe Coutinho is a brilliant player. He'll definitely make Bayern a better team, and improve their chances in the UEFA Champions League.

"Hopefully he'll adapt to the Bundesliga quickly."

To that end, Rafinha has offered Coutinho some invaluable tips to aid the ex-Liverpool ace's transition from Catalonia to Bavaria.

"Dress in warm clothes in the winter, learn how to say [Bayern club motto] Mia san Mia, and buy some Lederhosen," the 33-year-old recommended.

"Enjoy Oktoberfest, the city centre with its nice cafes and get involved in all the great things at your disposal."

Watch: Coutinho and Co. raring to go at Bayern

Coutinho could make his Bundesliga debut against another of Rafinha's former Bundesliga employers, Schalke, on Saturday.

Rafinha spent five years with the Royal Blues, before heading to Bayern - via Genoa - in summer 2011.

The defender, who now plays for Flamengo in his native Brazil, made 332 Bundesliga appearances all told, winning seven league titles.

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