PSG star Lionel Messi is happy for former Barcelona teammate Xavi after being appointed coach.

Speaking with Marca, the Argentine also spoke of PSG's status as Champions League favourites.

"Everyone says we're the big favourites," Messi told MARCA.

"I won't deny that we're one of the candidates, but we still need some things to be a really strong team."

Messi's attention did, naturally, get turned back to his former club Barcelona, where former teammate Xavi Hernandez has taken over as coach.

"Barcelona will grow with Xavi," Messi said. "He's a coach who knows a lot and knows the club well."