The duo are widely considered the best players in the world, but the Spain coach has a clear preference for the South American forward.

"Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo? I prefer Messi, because he's more of a street player," Del Bosque said to Punto Pelota.

When asked whether he wanted to predict who would win the FIFA Ballon d'Or, the former Real Madrid boss stated that he did not see the award as a matter of importance.

"I do not like the Ballon d'Or. It's a marketing tool. Our boys are good players and nice people.

"If they gave (the award for best coach) to me, I would accept it, though, because I don't want to upset FIFA."

Del Bosque missed out on the prestigious accolade in 2010 as Jose Mourinho won the award instead.