Messi: I'm not interested in a rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo

Messi is not bothered about rivalry with Ronaldo

Lionel Messi has spoken out about team-mate Neymar saying that he can be the best in the world someday and has played down his rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo.

Neymar can be the best in the world

Speaking at a promotional event, the FIFA World Cup Golden Ball winner believed his Brazilian team-mate is destined for great things.

"You never know what will happen in football," explained Messi. "But I think Neymar will be the best in the world because of his quality and attributes.

"We are playing closer together on the pitch than last season. Neymar is a great player and it's a pleasure to play with him. We have a good relationship. He's a great guy and we get on well both on and off the pitch."

Rivalry with Cristiano Ronaldo

"I've repeated it several times, I'm not in competition with Cristiano. I play my game, I do my work and I'm not interested in rivalry with him or anyone else. Individual awards are those that matter least to me, I want to have a great year and make sure my team achieve their goals."

"I don't know where I stand in world football, I don't even think about it, just try to keep improving. I only think about playing."

On his new playmaker role in the team

"The coach told me to move wherever I want. Sometimes I move back a little to try to make the final pass and to create. More through-balls can be played when you have two forwards in front of you."

Messi is set to face Ronaldo in an international friendly on November 18 at Old Trafford.