Former Manchester City forward Mario Balotelli has revisited his Premier League days and reflected on the criticism, fame, and lessons that defined his spell at the Etihad Stadium.
Known for his unpredictable brilliance and fiery personality, the Italian striker became one of football’s most talked-about figures during his three seasons in England’s top flight.
From Inter Milan Prodigy to Manchester Headline-Maker
After three eventful years at Inter Milan, Balotelli made the switch to Manchester City in 2010, joining Roberto Mancini’s ambitious project at the Etihad. Over the course of three seasons, he scored 30 goals and provided six assists in 80 appearances, helping City emerge as a genuine Premier League powerhouse.
Yet, despite arriving in England as one of Europe’s brightest young stars, Balotelli quickly became a lightning rod for media attention. His dazzling performances were often overshadowed by stories of off-field antics and perceived lapses in discipline. For every moment of brilliance on the pitch, there seemed to be another headline questioning his attitude or professionalism.
One of the most iconic moments of Balotelli’s career—and of the Premier League era—came on October 23, 2011, when City thrashed Manchester United 6-1 at Old Trafford. After opening the scoring, Balotelli lifted his shirt to reveal a message that would go down in football history: “Why Always Me?”
That simple question, printed across a white undershirt, was a direct response to the relentless scrutiny he faced in England. The phrase instantly became part of football folklore and remains one of the most memorable celebrations ever seen in the Premier League.
“England Shaped Me the Most” – Balotelli Opens Up
Now 35, Balotelli has reflected on that period of his career and the challenges that came with being one of football’s most polarising figures. Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport—as reported by GOAL—the Italian forward described his time in England as the most formative of his life.
“My experience with Inter was part of my development, but I think England shaped me the most,” he said. “It was the first time I was alone, my family wasn’t there, and I wasn’t used to it.”
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The move, he explained, forced him to grow up in ways he hadn’t expected. “It shapes you for better or for worse, because you make mistakes and have to get out of them on your own,” Balotelli added.
Reflecting on the famous “Why Always Me?” celebration, he revealed that the message was inspired by a spontaneous moment before the Manchester derby. “Why Always Me? I had it before the match with a warehouse worker; I was the centre of attention for my problems, and it was a nice outburst,” Balotelli said. “The tabloids in England went overboard with me.”
While the gesture was intended as a light-hearted jab at his critics, it became symbolic of Balotelli’s entire relationship with English football—a mixture of entertainment, controversy, and misunderstood genius.
Balotelli Short Stints and Future Uncertain
Following his spell at Manchester City, Balotelli joined Liverpool in 2014 but struggled to replicate his earlier form. During his two years at Anfield, he scored just four goals in 28 appearances, and his time there was marked by inconsistency and injury.
Since then, Balotelli’s career has seen him play for several clubs across Europe, including AC Milan, Nice, Marseille, Brescia, and Monza. Most recently, he signed with Serie A side Genoa but managed only six appearances last season due to a broken hand and ongoing fitness problems.
Currently without a club, Balotelli is training alone to maintain his fitness while evaluating his next move. Despite offers from abroad, the former Italy international admits he still hopes for another opportunity in his home country.
“I’ve had offers from abroad and I said no because in my heart I still hoped there was a chance to play in Italy,” he said. “Right now, that offer hasn’t arrived, and I’m at a point where I have to decide whether to sign for a team abroad or maybe take a break and think about January.”
