Coutinho has completed his dream move to Barcelona after a fee was agreed with Liverpool of £142million earlier today.

McManaman expected the Brazilian to make the switch, but is surprised that it happened in the current transfer window.

He says for all parties it would have been better for it to happen in the summer, with Barcelona running away with La Liga and Philippe Coutinho cup-tied for the Champions League.

“I don’t think it’s a surprise,” McManaman said on BT Sport.

“My only concern for all parties really is why the deal had to be done in January. 

“You could have done the deal now and he joined them at the end of the season. 

“He’s not going to take part in the Champions League, he’s not exactly going to help them win the league, Barcelona are 11 points clear and 15 of Real Madrid. 

“But I think it was inevitable it was going to happen. 

“We all wish him the best, he’s done marvellous service for Liverpool, he’s had a really good six months. 

“Slightly surprised he went now because I don’t see why; he’s got a World Cup to play at the end of the season, he’s playing well, why not keep on playing well with Liverpool?”

Liverpool signed Coutinho for just £8m in 2013 and McManaman is impressed with the profit the Reds have made.

“Not bad business is it?,” McManaman added.

“Brendan Rodgers brought him in.”