Lionel Messi has criticized Barcelona for the way they have treated Luis Suarez after it was made clear he was no longer a part of the club’s plans.

The Catalan giants’ talisman shared an emotional tribute to his friend and former teammate following the Uruguayan forward’s move to Atletico Madrid.

Suarez, who formed a strong relationship both on and off the pitch with Messi, made the move to Atletico on Thursday, ending six hugely successful years in Catalonia.

And Messi took to Instagram to share his thoughts on the situation – claiming Barca should have been more respectful in the way they let him go.

“I had already begun to imagine it but today I went into the dressing room and it truly dawned on me,” Messi wrote. “Its going to be so difficult to not continue to share every day with you both on and off the pitches and away from them.

“We’re going to miss you so much. We spent many years together, drank many mates, had many lunches and many dinners.

“So many things we will never forget, all the time we spent together. It will be strange to see you in another shirt and much more to come up against you on the pitch.

“You deserved a farewell that fit with who you are: one of the most important players in the history of the club.

“Someone who achieved great things for the team and on an individual level. You did not deserve for them to throw you out like they did. But the truth is that at this stage nothing surprises me anymore.

“I wish you all the best in your new journey. I love you loads. See you soon, friend.”