Former Barcelona right back Dani Alves has claimed it isLionel Messi's "humility" thathas allowed himto reachthe top of the worldgame.
The Brazilian international, now plying his trade with Juventus in Italy, also spoke ahead of his country's clash with Messi's Argentina in the upcoming international break.
Alves, 33, was full of praise for the five-time ballon d'Or winner, describing him as "something special".
He's a different player, he's marking an era, a unique player who has something special and he cannot be compared to any other footballer," Alves said, viaSport English.
"Leo is marking an era and he's going to leave his name in the history books, regardless of what he wins.
The thing that makes Leo different is that he doesn't think he's so great. He's a super relaxed guy with incredible values and his humility, without doubt, comes from his family.�
Alves added that the impending international between Brazil and Argentina is of huge importance, particularly with the historic rivalry between the two nations.
We are going to try and play a great game to continue our [recent] upward ascent. We can't interrupt our growth. We have a manager with a great philosophy and a wealth of experience and we're aware what our concepts are.
"If we get the win, we will take a huge step forward in our objective to qualify and leave a country [Argentina] aspiring to be in the qualification places in a tough spot.
Brazil against Argentina is never just one more game. It's the game. There's always extra motivation, regardless of how the other side are doing. When it's a Clasico, you don't look at the standings.�