JAVIER MASCHERANO: LIONEL MESSI DESERVES THE FIFA BALLON D' OR.

In a press conference today, Javier Mascherano while responding to questions about his contract renewal has stated that he feels valued by Barcelona and that the contract renewal “is well on its way.” The Midfielder stated that “it’s a topic that my representative is handling, but I’m in the best possible situation to renew my contract. The former Argentine skipper also added, "I’m very happy, and I want to continue with FC Barcelona for many years.” He also had this to say about his decision to join the Catalans, “it was the best decision I ever made in my life, because otherwise it wouldn’t have been possible to achieve everything I have.”

Eyes On The Ball: Javier Mascherano.

On the change of guard from Pep Guardiola to Tito Vilanova, the Blaugrana player stated that he sees no personal change in the former assistant manager’s behaviour, “he’s as calm and tranquil as ever.” He added, “it’s obvious that we all have to adjust to the change. However, I don’t think the change will be drastic, because everything we’ve been doing in recent years with Pep was agreed with Tito.”

When asked about the Ballon D'Or, Mascherano was quick to add that he would give the title to Messi, Xavi and Iniesta in that order although his opinion is personal.

He also talked about this years Uefa Champions League competition and admitted Real Madrid “will be one of the big challengers,” but went ahead to caution that every team is starting over and that “we have to respect all of our opponents.” Whatever happens, according to the Argentine, Barça’s players “must focus on their behaviour in order to be able to compete at the highest level on the pitch.”