Messi explains why Neymar is NOT his Barcelona successor

The Brazilian is tipped to step into the Argentine's shoes once he leaves Barca - but the Ballon d'Or favourite believes his team-mate will become his own player.

Lionel Messi believes Neymar has “everything he needs” to become the best player in the world.

The Brazilian made the final three for the 2015 Ballon d’Or, although Messi is heavy favourite to win the trophy for the fifth time in his career.

But asked if he believed Neymar could take over from him at Barcelona, Messi replied: “I don’t think he’s anybody’s successor, he’s not succeeding me or anyone else. 

“He’ll be himself, which is great, and I’m sure he’ll continue to evolve and grow.

“He has everything to become whatever he wants to be, he has everything he needs to do that.