Mario Balotelli has defended his turbulent career trajectory, insisting he carries no regrets despite admitting to youthful mistakes during his time at elite European clubs. The 35-year-old Italian striker, now based at Al Ittifaq in the United Arab Emirates, acknowledged past indiscretions but rejected suggestions he caused deliberate harm to others in professional football.
"I did some stupid things, I was a lively young man," Balotelli told SportMediaset. "I do not regret it because they made me grow. But I have a clear conscience—I have never hurt anyone." The controversial figure's off-field antics became tabloid fodder during his Premier League years, including the infamous fireworks incident in his bathroom at Manchester City. Yet Balotelli maintains such episodes have been magnified compared to modern player behaviour.
A Decorated Yet Nomadic Career
Despite the headlines, Balotelli's on-pitch credentials remain substantial. He won three Serie A titles and the Champions League with Inter Milan, scoring 28 goals in 86 appearances. At Manchester City, he claimed a Premier League crown and FA Cup, netting 30 times in 80 matches. His spell at AC Milan proved equally prolific, yielding 33 goals across 77 games. The 2010 Golden Boy award winner believes no Italian talent currently exceeds his pure technical ability.
His nomadic European journey—spanning Liverpool, Nice, Marseille, Genoa and Adana Demirspor—reflected both his marketability and the complications of managing a volatile personality in elite environments. Balotelli revealed he came close to joining Juventus after leaving Manchester City but opted for Milan instead, a choice he maintains proved correct.
Italian National Team Regret and Middle East Future
One source of genuine sadness for Balotelli involves the Italian national team. He holds the uncomfortable distinction of being Italy's last World Cup goalscorer, achieving that feat exactly 12 years ago. With the Azzurri failing to qualify for three consecutive World Cups, Balotelli described the statistic as "a sad thing" rather than a point of pride, reflecting Italy's dramatic decline on the international stage.
Looking forward, Balotelli intends to fulfil his Al Ittifaq contract and continue adding to his career goal tally in the Middle East. With a European return deemed unlikely, his focus shifts entirely to the Gulf region, where he anticipates renewed motivation alongside new teammates. As long as passion for training and scoring endures, the striker remains committed to competing at the highest level available to him.
