Lionel Messi's top 5 teammates at Barcelona

3) Dani Alves

South American rivals, but the best of friends at Barcelona

Barcelona fans were no doubt very disappointed when Dani Alves decided to move on from the club a few years ago - however, the saddest person in the world would probably have been Messi.

Despite representing two rival nations on the biggest stage, Alves and Messi were the best of friends at Barcelona. Although Iniesta was the one who created space and made passes for the attack, Alves was the one with whom Messi had the best connection. The bond between these two was almost telepathic, and their link-up play was better than most forwards around the world.

From Barcelona's first title under Pep Guardiola to the day Alves left, the Brazilian and the Argentine were an offensive force which could break down any defence. The right-back was almost like a wing partner for Messi. It is a shame that Alves left when he did, for there is no doubt that his presence would have bolstered Messi's offensive prowess even more.