Due to a muscle issue, Brazilian Coutinho’s World Cup aspirations are in jeopardy.

Coutinho, 30, sealed a permanent switch to Villa from Barcelona in the close season following a successful loan spell but the playmaker has not scored or provided an assist in 12 league matches.

Due to a quadriceps injury, Philippe Coutinho of Aston Villa will miss their upcoming two games and could be out for longer, according to manager Unai Emery, raising questions about the Brazilian’s readiness for the World Cup.

After a fruitful loan period, Coutinho, 30, signed a permanent transfer from Barcelona to Villa, but in 12 league games, the playmaker has failed to score or create an assist.

He missed the 3-1 Premier League victory over Manchester United on Sunday, the League Cup match against United at Old Trafford on Thursday, and the league match against Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.

Coutinho’s absence was confirmed by Emery owing to a quad injury.

He told the Birmingham Mail, “I don’t know how long it’ll be, but he couldn’t play today (Sunday) and he’s not going to play till after the (World Cup) break.”

He won’t play on Thursday or Sunday because of his injury and extended absence.

Later on Monday, Brazil head coach Tite will reveal his 26-man roster for the World Cup in Qatar, which runs from November 20 to December 18.

Although Coutinho made his international debut for Brazil in 2010 and has since earned over 60 caps, his poor performance this year has raised questions about whether he should still be on the team.