Messi: What I feel for Barcelona goes beyond any signature Ballon d'Or Wants to stay

Lionel Messi took the opportunity to reassure Barcelona fans about his future as he was named the 2019 Ballon d'Or on Monday.

The Argentinian won his sixth, taking him clear of Cristiano Ronaldo on five, and he expressed his desire to stay at the Camp Nou.

"The people at the club know me," he said.

"They know there's no problem beyond what the contract says.

"What I feel for this club goes beyond any signature or any role. So there isn't a problem."

Speaking about his sixth Ballon d'Or, the Argentinian was understandably pleased.

"It's very special," he acknowledged.

"I'm in a certain part of my life where I'm enjoying it both on and off the pitch.

"With my family, with my children, so I'm happy for this recognition."

Quizzed about retirement, the Barcelona captain explained that he still has plenty to give and feels as good as ever.

"I'm 32 already and on my way to 33," he said.

"I said a long time ago that it all depends on how I feel physically.

"But today I feel better than ever on a physical and personal level, so hopefully I can stretch it out a lot more."

Cristiano Ronaldo didn't attend the ceremony, but Messi didn't want his absence to become a story.

"He's not here because he couldn't be here," he explained.

"It shouldn't be twisted. We enjoyed a great gala."