Argentina international Juan Roman Riquelme said he believes his 18-year-old compatriot, Lionel Messi will steal the limelight from the likes of Wayne Rooney in the World Cup finals in Germany this summer.

“I do not believe Rooney is as good as Messi," the Villarreal playmaker was quoted as saying by Sky Sports.

"Rooney is a very good young player but he is not Lionel Messi,” added Riquelme.

Messi, who has already scored seven goals for Barcelona this season, played a pivotal role in his side’s victory over Chelsea in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League last-16 match last month.

The Argentine prodigy also led his country to win the FIFA World Youth Championship in Holland last year, where he won the top scorer and top player honors.

"He [Messi] will shine at the World Cup because he is showing great form this season and playing great football. He is different to the rest.”

"I like his play a lot and I think he is on the road to becoming one of the best players in the world."

Messi is currently sidelined with an injury he picked up during Barcelona’s second leg tie against Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League last week.