Koeman, speaking to NOS, said Suarez could have stayed at the Camp Nou, but it was the club’s decision to let him leave.
The 33-year-old striker went on to join Atleti for £5m, after a potential move to Juventus broke down.
Suarez enjoyed six successful years at the Nou Camp, winning a Champions League and four LaLiga titles.
Messi was especially critical of Barcelona’s handling of Suarez’s departure and Koeman revealed he has discussed the matter with him.
He said: “If you have someone in the locker room with whom you and your wife and children also hang out outside football, then such a reaction makes sense.
“I also said that to Messi: “I understand that you are disappointed and think it is a terrible shame that he is leaving, but these are choices of the club”.’
