Philip Cocu believes Ibrahim Afellay is well-suited to Barcelona
Former Barcelona player Philip Cocu has said PSV Eindhoven's Ibrahim Afellay would thrive if he transferred to the Spanish champions.
Afellay, who could be sold by PSV in the January transfer window in attempt to balance the books at the club, has been linked with several of Europe's top clubs after scoring 13 goals in ten league appearances this season.
Speculation surrounding the striker intensified after he scored two goals against Sweden in the Netherlands' Euro 2012 qualifier on 12 October.
Afellay has already expressed his admiration for Barcelona in the Spanish press, and Cocu, who played for the Catalans between 1998 and 2004, has told
Catalan daily Sport that his countryman would adapt well at the Camp Nou.
"Yes, I think Afellay would suit Barcelona’s game," the 40-year-old said.
Cocu, who played alongside a young Afellay at PSV between 2004 and 2007, said the 24-year-old's versatility could be of use in Barcelona's offensive midfield and attacking positions.
"He is technically a very good player who uses both feet well. He can play in different positions. In the Dutch national team, he plays sometimes on the left wing, but also on the right. He is very versatile, very offensive. I do not think he could play
in [Sergio] Busquets position, but I think he could fit in the other positions."
Barcelona the logical step
The former Dutch international, seemingly aware that he was addressing a publication loyal to the Catalan club, added that Barcelona's mobile game would further develop the schooling Afellay has already received in his home country.
"He has many options, but the important thing is your philosophy, and how the club you join helps you further develop your football. It is logical, from where he is concerned, to go to Barcelona."
Afellay's current contract with PSV expires at the end of the 2010–11 season.
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