Peter Henry
Mario Balotelli is undoubtedly one of football’s biggest characters.
Despite his sensational ability as a striker, he has often found himself dominating the headlines for his flamboyant lifestyle off the pitch and not his exploits on it.
Here are 10 of the best quotes made by the Maverick Italian …
“I don’t celebrate because I’m only doing my job. When a postman delivers letters, does he celebrate?” On why he didn’t celebrate after scoring a goal.
“Because I’m rich” When asked by Police why he was carrying £5,000 in cash after he crashed his car.
“Mourinho is the best coach in the world, but as a man he still needs to learn manners and respect” I’d say most people would agree with you on this one Balo.
“There’s only one that is a little stronger than me: Messi. All the others are behind me.” Not sure we’re with you on this one though Mario.
“I will invite Shakira to the final, so she can see what I do to her boyfriend (Gerard Pique)” This was in the build up to the 2012 European Championship final. Sadly for Balotelli Italy were thumped 4-0 by Spain.
“Jack who? No, I don’t know him but the next time I play against Arsenal I will keep a close eye on him. Perhaps I can show him the Golden Boy trophy and remind him that I won it.’’ When asked about Jack Wilshere.
”Inside me I’m Ghanaian, and I’m proud to be African. But of course I’m Italian. I was born in Italy. I’ve never been to Africa in my life, but I will go one day.”
“Just to see what it looks like” When asked by Police why he had drove into a Woman’s Prison in Italy.
“You speak bad of me, I score goals.”
“You can’t delete racism. It’s like a cigarette. You can’t stop smoking if you don’t want to, and you can’t stop racism if people don’t want to. But I’ll do everything I can to help.”