Thiago Alcantara has revealed that he would like current teammate Philippe Coutinho to remain at Bayern Munich.
While the Bundesliga leaders have the option to turn Coutinho's loan spell into a permanent deal, it has been claimed that the Brazilian will return to Barcelona at the end of the season.
However, Thiago has talked up the ability of his fellow playmaker, describing Coutinho as a "phenomenon" having first encountered him during his childhood.
The Spaniard told La Vanguardia: "I know him well, he's very good. I've seen him play since he was 12 years old. I played against him in Brazil at football sala and I loved him.
"He lacks nothing. I like to play with players at a top level and he's a phenomenon. He's a great guy, really hard working, with unbeatable technique and incredible finishing. Players go through good moments and some not so good ones and he brings us a lot. We hope he's here next season too."
Despite criticism over his form, Coutinho has contributed nine goals and eight assists in the Bundesliga and Champions League this season.
Darren Plant
