Coutinho flourished in Vasco da Gama's youth system and was soon called up to the Brazil under-15 football team.
In July 2008, at age 16, he was purchased by Italian giants Inter Milan for €4 million.
Coutinho remained at Vasco on loan for two years as FIFA prohibited international transfer of footballers until they reach age 18, and became a regular first team player despite his young age.
In 2009, he helped Vasco win the Série B title and achieve promotion.
In 2010, he made 31 appearances and scored 5 goals in all competitions as he established himself as a key first-team player.
Coutinho flourished in Vasco da Gama's youth system and was soon called up to the Brazil under-15 football team. In July 2008, at age 16, he was purchased by Italian giants Inter Milan for €4 million. Coutinho remained at Vasco on loan for two years as FIFA prohibited international transfer of footballers until they reach age 18, and became a regular first team player despite his young age. In 2009, he helped Vasco win the Série B title and achieve promotion. In 2010, he made 31 appearances and scored 5 goals in all competitions as he established himself as a key first-team player.
Philippe Coutinho