Former Mario Balotelli coach at Manchester City club Roberto Mancini was convinced that the 26-year-old striker could reach the level of Cristiano Ronaldo, but his "youthful folly" got in the way.
At the beginning of M. Balotelli's career, he was considered one of the most promising footballers in Europe. After shining at Inter Milan club, the striker moved to Man City in 2010 and dazzled in his first two seasons, but later M. Balotelli's career became less impressive.
The player himself was more famous for his activities off the football field, rather than achievements on it. R. Mancini claims that the striker did not reach the level of C. Ronaldo only because of his character.
"Mario is a really great kid, but he couldn't control his instincts. He did a lot of foolish things, but that can happen when you are young.
At the beginning of his career, he was incredible, he had all the opportunities to reach the level of Cristiano Ronaldo. He didn't achieve this level only because of his own fault," said R. Mancini.
After an unsuccessful period at Liverpool club, M. Balotelli moved to Nice last summer and sparkled at the beginning of the season. In total, he played 26 matches this season and scored 16 goals.
