I'd give up all my records to win WC: Messi

Leo Messi of Barcelona FC displays his four ballons d'or to the audience prior to the Copa del Rey Quarter Final match between Barcelona FC and Malaga CF at Camp Nou on January 16, 2013 in Barcelona, Spain. Photo: Getty Images

Lionel Messi has declared he would gladly hand back all his personal records if it meant Argentina could defeat Germany in the World Cup final.

The Albiceleste forward has scored four times on the path to Sunday's showpiece in the Maracana, which his side reached courtesy of a 4-2 win on penalties against the Netherlands on Wednesday.

Messi has won a glittering array of awards throughout his career, including four Ballons d'Or, but claims that he would exchange all those accolades for a taste of World Cup glory.

"I would give all my personal records to be world champion," the 27-year-old was quoted by Bild.

"I'd prefer to win the World Cup than the Ballon d'Or," he added in an interview with sponsors Adidas.

"As a player, winning the World Cup is the biggest thing there is. It's something you dream of as a youngster and that dream never fades away.

"I've asked my teammates at Barcelona, Xavi, [Andres] Iniesta and [Gerard] Pique, what it's like to lift the trophy and they said it's hard to explain. We'll be doing everything we can to turn this dream into a reality [for Argentina]."

The forward was echoed in his desperation to clinch a third World Cup for Argentina by Javier Mascherano, who promised his side would give everything for victory.

Lionel Messi of FC Barcelona poses the Golden Boot for scoring 46 goals last season prior to the La Liga match between FC Barcelona and Granda CF at Camp Nou on November 23, 2013 in Barcelona, Spain. Photo: Getty Images

"We're there and we'll try it with the soul, heart and head," the 30-year-old said.

"Now we are on the last step and will try to live up to the circumstances, and then get to the destination.

"I wish I could enjoy it and can play with joy and excitement it deserves. This is what you aim for in life and what you imagined was far off, almost impossible. The dream is a great one.

"Right now all this is crossing my mind. I am a person who is easily excited and this is all in part for our squad, but also for those who struggle at our side - family and friends who have endured through thick and thin."