Lionel Messi has thanked Pep Guardiola and the Barcelona squad for keeping his confidence up after a demoralising few days that saw him criticised in both Argentina and Spain.

The Blaugrana forward was deeply affected by attacks in the media, which questioned his ability, attitude and desire while playing for Argentina in the recent World Cup qualifiers.

That saw his form for Barca dip, and the criticism continued after a lacklustre display against Valencia. However, he bounced back on Sunday against Real Zaragoza.

“I did not have the happiest of times with the national team, nor in the Valencia game, but I always knew I'd bounce back," he was quoted as saying by Barcelona's official website.

"The most important thing is my team-mates - they showed total confidence in me, which makes me feel more comfortable.

"Pep [Guardiola] too. It's important how he makes you feel, both on and off the pitch. He takes particular interest in you as a human being, not just as a player."

Messi is the favourite to win the Ballon d'Or in December, but the diminutive forward is not concerned about winning individual trophies for himself.

“Last year we had a great season and now we are picking up these prizes," he continued.

"I hope someone from our team wins the award - it'll make the whole squad happy. I've always said that the most important thing for me is the group."