The award has been dominated by Messi and his arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo in recent years, with Kaka's win back in 2007 the last time someone other than Messi or Ronaldo lifted the title.
However, Messi believes that Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Luis Suarez could all challenge this year.
Messi knows all about Suarez and Neymar having played with the pair at the Camp Nou, whilst Mbappe has been tipped for big things following an astonishing breakthrough season for Monaco last term.
"There are many great players around today who can win the Ballon d'Or," Messi told 'World Soccer'.
"In recent years there have just been two, but now players like Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and Luis Suarez can compete."