Champions League winner disregards Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo: ‘I have nothing to envy them’

Mario Balotelli is still active in soccer and plans to keep playing for a few more years. He admitted that joining Genoa in Italy was a “mistake,” and added that his future could lie in Major League Soccer—the same league where Lionel Messi plays. And even though he’s not currently at the same level, Balotelli didn’t sell himself short, comparing himself to both the Argentina captain and Cristiano Ronaldo.

“Soccer is a fake world. I have nothing to envy them for,” said the Italian striker to Rai 2, who not long ago expressed interest in playing for Boca Juniors and is now eyeing the MLS in 2026, once his current contract ends. His goal is to play there for two or three years before retiring—an event he believes will be life-changing.

“It will be a sporting trauma, but I won’t miss everything surrounding socccer,” he added without much emotion. His relationship with the sport has always been marked by controversy and media scrutiny, but that hasn’t stopped him. “I could’ve done more, but I’m happy,” he reflected.

When asked more specifically about Cristiano Ronaldo, the comparison focused on the Ballon d’Or trophies that Balotelli never won. But, true to form, the former Manchester City, Liverpool, and Italy national team forward had a comeback: “He trains like crazy—I don’t! And he has more money.”

Now, it seems that after his time with Genoa—a move he considers a poor choice—Balotelli is headed to the United States. Could he end up playing alongside Messi at Inter Miami? That remains to be seen.