Barcelona star Lionel Messi admits that he is "missing" a World Cup winners' medal.

The Argentina international, who turns 26 on Monday, has already bagged four consecutive Ballon d'Or titles but said that he would prefer winning football's biggest prize with his national team than grab a fifth.

"Between a fifth Ballon d'Or and a World Cup with Argentina, I'd want the latter, without a doubt," he told Corriere della Sera. "I'm missing a World Cup; it makes me sad."

Messi record-breaking performances have grabbed attention around the world over the last few season, but the attacker says that his wide Antonella keeps him grounded.

"I never watch football on television. Antonella gets bored with it. I come home and tell her I scored two or three goals, and she doesn't even hear me!"