Daniel Alves has thanked Barcelona for helping him prepare for the World Cup.

The veteran Brazil fullback was permitted to train with Barca Atletic after his Liga MX season with Pumas had concluded.

Alves has played the last two World Cup games and said: "I've been training there and I'm grateful for the chance that I get.

"I am grateful to Rafa (Marquez) and all his technical staff for how they received me. Also to the president Joan (Laporta) who opened the doors for me there. Thanks to them I'm here."

On the round of 16 win against South Korea, he added: "I'm very happy, we went all out and we knew how to translate chances into goals, this has allowed us to have the game under control."