Buenos Aires, Jan 13 (IANS): Argentine forward Lionel Messi's father Jorge has said that he could have never dreamt of his son's monumental success in world football.

Messi collected his record fifth Ballon d'Or title at Zurich on Sunday and has enjoyed tremendous success since his family relocated from Argentina to Barcelona with him as a 13-year-old.

"Today he is where we never dreamed he could be, a magical place that he started towards in 2007 - the world of football has recognised him five times as the best player on the planet," Jorge was quoted as saying by goal.com on Tuesday.

"We left Argentina with a wealth of dreams and illusions, but also many fears. Lionel enjoyed that trip," he said.

"I guess he began to forge the idea of succeeding in what he loved most: football."

Jorge said the family is proud of his son and everything he has achieved.

"From the family, we are very proud of him because everything he achieved came from huge effort," he said.