Why Mario Balotelli Still Has the “Itch” to Play at 35

Former Mario Balotelli may be 35 years old, but the enigmatic striker still has the passion and hunger to keep playing football.

Now representing Al Ittifaq Club in the UAE First Division, the Italian forward is embarking on yet another chapter in what has been one of football’s most unpredictable careers.

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A Career Across Five Countries

Balotelli’s career has taken him across several leagues and countries. Over the years, the former Inter Milan academy product has played in:

• Italy

• England

• France

• Turkey

• Switzerland

• United Arab Emirates

The striker also had notable spells with Manchester City F.C., Liverpool F.C. and AC Milan.

During his time at Manchester City, he helped the club win the Premier League and the FA Cup.

On the international stage, Balotelli earned 36 caps for Italy national football team, becoming one of the country’s most talked-about forwards of his generation.

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“He Still Has That Itch”

Former Italy teammate Giuseppe Rossi believes Balotelli’s love for football is the main reason he continues playing.

Speaking to GOAL, Rossi explained that despite the controversies that followed Balotelli throughout his career, the striker has always simply loved being around the game.

“Of course he still wants to be involved. He still wants to play and enjoys it. He was always somebody that loved being around the ball and the pitch. I’m sure he still has that itch and care for the sport.”

For many professional footballers, the connection to the pitch never truly fades.

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The Move to the UAE

Balotelli’s latest move to Al Ittifaq surprised many fans, but the club’s leadership says the transfer is part of a bigger vision.

Club president Pietro Laterza revealed that discussions with Balotelli focused on a long-term football project that includes:

• Youth development programmes

• Building football academies

• Growing fan engagement in the UAE

• Eventually earning promotion to the UAE Pro League

Balotelli’s experience is expected to play a major role in helping guide younger players as the club builds for the future.

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England’s Lasting Influence

Looking back on his career, Balotelli has often said that his time in England with Manchester City F.C. had the biggest impact on his personal development.

Living alone for the first time forced him to mature quickly.

According to Balotelli, the experience shaped him both as a player and as a person, helping him learn how to deal with mistakes and pressure on his own.

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The Iconic “Why Always Me?” Moment

One of Balotelli’s most memorable moments came during a derby clash against Manchester United F.C..

After scoring at Old Trafford, he revealed a shirt with the now-legendary message: “Why Always Me?”

The celebration captured the paradox of Balotelli’s career — immense talent combined with constant media attention.

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A Career That Refuses to End

Now representing the 14th club of his professional journey, Balotelli continues to defy expectations by staying active in the game.

While many players of his generation have already retired, the Italian striker is still chasing the feeling that only football can give.

For Balotelli, the passion remains simple: the love of the game — and the itch to keep playing. ⚽