Barcelona star Lionel Messi says he wouldn't be the player he is without his teammates.

Messi is in line to win the Ballon d'Or again next month.

"I consider the team the best in the world at all. I still remain the same. If I am what I am, it's thanks to my teammates," said Messi.

"We've done all this work together. I have the great good fortune to play with Xavi and Iniesta. They are players that I admire for their class and influence over the game. I have very good relationship with them. They have become my friends."