Barcelona Legend Discusses Messi and 2010 Ballon d’Or 'Snub' as He Prepares for UAE Journey

• Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi were Barcelona teammates for over a decade
• The legendary forward pipped his teammate to the Ballon d'Or award in 2010
• The 2012 UEFA Player of the Year has cleared the air about that year's award

Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi defined an era in the history of Barcelona.

The Spanish midfield maestro was an integral part of the Catalan giants' set-up and helped them win a remarkable 32 titles. His Argentine teammate was also a wizard in front of the goal.

Iniesta recently completed a transfer to the formidable Emirates Club in the United Arab Emirates Pro League, per Mundo Deportivo.

During an interview with Sharjah Sports TV, he shared his thoughts on missing out on the 2010 Ballon d'Or and shed light on his enduring friendship with Messi, among other topics.

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Iniesta speaks on Ballon d'Or snub

In a lengthy interview covering his glamorous career for both club and country, Iniesta was quizzed about his 2010 Ballon d'Or snub.

Reflecting on that year's award, the 39-year-old midfielder stated per Sport:

"If you ask me whether I would have liked to win a Ballon d'Or, I would say yes. But no, football was not unfair [to] me and my awards. I'm very happy with my career and with everything that happened."

The La Masia graduate was also asked about his relationship with Messi, who pipped him to the award. Instead of reacting directly, Iniesta opted to focus on the Argentine's recent successes:

"I spoke with Messi during the World Cup. Of course, I was happy that he was doing well and eventually won it. With his ability and experience, he brings happiness wherever he goes."

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Sports Brief previously reported on Barcelona honouring Andres Iniesta with a farewell fixture after the midfielder announced he was departing Japanese club, Vissel Kobe.

There were suggestions the Spaniard could play one half for each side but his club were said to not be keen on the idea, with the midfielder simply playing for the Asian side.