Philippe Coutinho says he meant no disrespect after a controversial goal celebration during Barcelona's 3-0 win over Manchester United on Tuesday.
Coutinho scored his side's third goal and celebrated by putting his fingers in his ears and gesturing towards a stand.
The Brazilian was upset with criticism he has received this season and his reaction was said to have annoyed local reporters, who thought the midfielder was disrespectful to celebrate in such a way.
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The 26-year-old says that he 'respects everybody' but admitted he feels liberated after scoring against United.
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Speaking after Barcelona's win over Real Sociedad, he said: "I have always been someone who respects everybody.
"The truth is that this (celebration) was for the people to see that I have to block out the sound in order to focus on a match or on my job so that it won’t affect me.
"It was like a liberation."
Meanwhile, Coutinho admits he's anxious about a return to Liverpool.
Barcelona host Jurgen Klopp's side at the Camp Nou in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final before Coutinho returns to play at Anfield on May 8.
Asked about going back to Merseyside, he said: "It will be something special.
"I am anxious because I know that moment is coming."
