In an Instagram live chat with Italian social media influencer Damiano Coccia, otherwise known as ‘Er Faina’, former Inter striker Mario Balotelli has reminisced about working under Jose Mourinho whilst at the Nerazzurri.
He started the live chat, which took place yesterday afternoon, by admitting he has no regrets over not moving to Barcelona as a youngster.
“Do I regret not going to Barcelona? No, I won almost everything with Inter, then we beat them in the Champions League semi finals the year we won it. We are talking about two top clubs but going to the Nerazzurri was the right choice,” he began.
Next he went on to speak about current Tottenham Hotspur manager Jose Mourinho and revealed shared an anecdote about Mourinho from after the Champions League final.
“We got along, there were just a few discussions, with no lack of respect. It only happened once, I can’t remember why, but he dropped me for two games. Other than that, we got along well.
“I remember after winning the Champions League, he stepped on to the bus and I was already practically asleep at the back, but he was hugging everyone and crying, they were all crying.”
Balotelli, who is now on the books of Brescia, then went on to discuss his move from Manchester City to AC Milan and during the segment he expressed his love for Inter.
“Adriano Galliani wanted me at AC Milan. After Manchester City, I was going to Juve and was ok with that, but then Galliani got in the way and when I heard AC Milan were involved, I lost it.
“As you know, I am a fan of Milan, so I followed my heart. At the time, AC Milan were seventh or eighth in the table, so it would’ve been smarter for me to go to Juventus, but I have AC Milan in my heart.
“To be honest, I love Inter too. Juve would’ve been a practical choice and I did think about it, but then I chose with my heart.”
Balotelli spent three years with Inter between 2007 and 2010 during which time he made a total of 86 appearances across all competitions. He scored 28 goals and also provided 15 assists for his Nerazzurri teammates.
