BUENOS AIRES: Barcelona wizard Lionel Messi (pic) is considering the possibility of taking legal action against a Hungarian magazine after he denied claims by the publication that his teammates in La Masia thought he was 'dumb'.

The Argentina international captain had been quoted as saying by Kepes Sport that his colleagues in Barca's youth side ranks, including Cesc Fabregas and Gerard Pique, initially believed he had problems as a teenager.

Messi also reportedly thanked Brazil 'wonder kid' Neymar for his positive comments about him, but the three-time Ballon d'Or winner has since told Argentine television that all the interview was fabricated.

"That interview never existed," Messi told Teleam. "I would like to deny having made that interview.

"I reserve the right to take legal action (against Kepes Sport)."

Messi will resume training with Barca tomorrow - ahead of the Catalans's first pre-season friendly against Hamburg on July 24.

- mD