Italian striker Mario Balotelli expressed his gratitude towards legendary Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti who helped him launch his career.
The 34-year-old started his once-promising career as a Nerazzurri youth product. At the time, Moratti was the club’s owner and president.
The former patron took the troubled young forward under his wing until his departure to Manchester City in 2010.
Therefore, Balotelli remains grateful for the 78-year-old, insisting there won’t be another person like him in the sport.
“I don’t think there will ever be a president like Moratti again in the history of football,” said the Italy international in his interview with DAZN via FcInterNews.
“I practically owe him my career. He gave me a dream, a career, but he also gave me a great responsibility.”
Mario Balotelli Heaps Praise On Legendary Inter Milan President Massimo Moratti
Despite all the controversy that became synonymous with his career, Balotelli still struggled to understand why he was being painted in a bad light.
“I don’t understand what prejudice people have about Balotelli.
“I’ve had arguments with some coaches, but everyone argues. In my career, I’ve never ruined a dressing room.
“Today, we hear about doping, drugs and betting… I’ve always stayed away from these things. What serious crime did I commit?
“I’ve gone through moments in which I felt alone, unmotivated, unprotected. In those moments I was lucky enough to have my family close by.
“This journey has changed me a lot, because now I’m more aware of myself, and this is an important weapon for me, because I learned how to control myself. My regret is not having done it earlier.”
Balotelli is currently a free agent, so he took the opportunity to offer his services to any Serie A suitor.
“I want to return to Serie A, and that’s why I’m still at home. I’ve received offers from abroad, but I’ve slowed everything down because I want to play in Italy.
“I would be happy at any club. I should rather think about which ones might not be right for me.”