Barcelona coach Xavi insists PSG star Leo Messi deserves his Ballon d'Or.

Xavi played alongside Messi for many years at the Camp Nou, during which they had their most successful spell in decades.

"The first thing I want to do is to congratulate Alexia Putellas," the coach said, referring to the Barcelona women's star who won the women's Ballon d'Or on Monday.

"Also, I congratulate Pedri for the Kopa Award.

"Messi's win is footballing justice.

"We can also think that others might deserve it, but the moment they open the envelope and they say Messi won it then it's fair"