There is a degree of irony to the saga burdening Liverpool, one which has threatened to compromise Jurgen Klopp's planning at the start of such a critical season.
Philippe Coutinho was not at Anfield on Saturday. He has made it clear his preferred destination is Barcelona as Neymar's replacement.
It is unthinkable that he will be present on Wednesday either, as Liverpool attempt to complete the job against Hoffenheim in the Champions League.
But Fenway Sports Group are clear: Coutinho will not be leaving.