Andres Iniesta has rejected claims of a campaign being waged against Lionel Messi.

Messi has come under fire from media and European government officials this year.

"That's what they're saying here; they don't know anything about it in England. It's just a big thing to try and exert an influence," Iniesta remarked.

He also acknowledged that he would be thrilled if Messi won the Ballon d'Or.

"I'd be delighted; the whole squad would feel like part of it."

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