Jurgen Klopp believes Philippe Coutinho’s future at the club has been guaranteed beyond this summer but revealed he will sit out the first few games of the season.
The Premier League club released a statement on Friday which appeared to categorically rule out the Brazilian leaving Anfield despite reported interest from Barcelona.
“No, he’s not available: he has back problems and has not been in training since last Friday,” Klopp explained at his pre-match press conference.
“The bigger issue for me is that he’s not available to play this weekend.
“When FSG say something like this (ruling out sale) it’s 100% clear, you can read it.
“Between October 2015 and now there has not been one moment that people should have doubt.
“I have no problem with the FSG and have never had problems with my bosses, it is about a relationship.
“I am here for short-term – even if I see out my long-term contract, life goes on and the club is bigger than all of us.
“They are serious people and care about what we are doing and want to give us the best opportunities they can.”
