The European champions launched a scathing criticism of Uefa president Michel Platini on Friday after the Frenchman - who thrice won the accolade during his playing days - suggested that Germany's World Cup success merited one of their players being bestowed with the Ballon d'Or.
However, the Camp Nou boss believes it is melodramatic to complain that everybody is not rooting for Cristiano Ronaldo as the worthy winner and - unsurprisingly, as Barca coach - says Messi has his vote of confidence.
"I don't want to exacerbate things with Real Madrid after what Platini said, but everyone is allowed their own opinion," Luis Enrique told reporters at a press conference ahead of Sunday's visit to Valencia.
"This prize is for the best player of the season and that is Messi, so I would give the Ballon d'Or to Leo."
It was confirmed this week that Barca's summer signing Thomas Vermaelen - who is yet to make his debut for the club - will be out for up to six months due to needing an operation on an injury, and Luis Enrique played down the peculiarity of the situation.
"Inside professional football, injuries are common and sometimes they require surgery, this is the case of Thomas," he added.
"We think is the best solution for him, he's doing very well, we need to support him and he'll be back with us soon. There's no intention to find a substitute in the winter market."
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