The pair were both pivotal players for the Reds, so much so they attracted the interest of Barcelona.
The Spanish giants lured Suarez to the Nou Camp in July 2014 and snapped up Coutinho in January 2018.
Jurgen Klopp’s men have gone from strength-to-strength since Coutinho’s exit, reaching last season’s Champions League final and challenging for the Premier League title.
And Barnes believes his old side are better off without the duo, who will return to Merseyside tonight for the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tie.
“Suarez and Coutinho will receive a decent reception from Liverpool fans," Barnes told BonusCodeBets.
"They didn’t leave in bad circumstances and were two fantastic players.
“Liverpool are a much better-balanced team without them because they were the stars of the team, which in many ways held the team back, because it was all about them.”
Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho were two of Liverpool's main men before they left for Barcelona (Image: GETTY)
Liverpool are a much better-balanced team without them
John Barnes on Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho
In recent months, Coutinho has been linked with a move back to the Premier League, with Manchester United reportedly interested in acquiring his services.
The Brazil international has already poured cold water on a move back to England, which Barnes doesn’t see happening.
He said: “Coutinho won’t come back to the Premier League, he’ll stay at Barcelona.
“When you have a player like Lionel Messi, who dominates the attacking and is the focal point, that is what Coutinho also does.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy