Mario Balotelli has spoken about his move to Al Ittifaq FC, the experience of playing alongside his brother Enock Barwuah and his determination to continue his football career.
In a recent interview with The Guardian, the former Italy international explained that his move to the UAE developed shortly before he joined the club. After meeting the club president and learning more about the sporting project, Balotelli became interested in the opportunity.
He viewed Al Ittifaq as a competitive project and an opportunity to enjoy football in a new environment. His decision also allowed him to fulfil a childhood dream of sharing the pitch with his brother.
A Family Dream Fulfilled
Balotelli and Enock had spoken about playing together since childhood. During the peak of Balotelli’s European career, the brothers understood that the opportunity might only arrive later.
Their dream became a reality at Al Ittifaq, giving this stage of Balotelli’s career a strong personal meaning.
The experienced striker also reflected on football in the UAE. He praised the quality of the stadiums and infrastructure while acknowledging that the local game still has areas for development. He believes organisation and supporter engagement will improve as football continues to grow across the country.
Reflecting on Italian Football
Balotelli also discussed the challenges facing football development in Italy. He believes the decline of street and park football has reduced the amount of time young players spend developing their skills outside organised training.
During his childhood, football remained part of everyday life. Young players trained with their clubs and spent additional hours playing informal matches in parks and neighbourhoods.
Those games helped players develop confidence, creativity and the ability to compete against older children. Balotelli believes phones, computers, gaming and changes in family lifestyles have reduced such opportunities for today’s generation.
Despite his concerns, he expressed confidence in the long-term future of Italian football. He believes difficult periods form part of the natural cycle experienced by major football nations and expects future generations to help Italy recover.
Pride in His Career
Balotelli also looked back on his time with Manchester City, describing that period as one of the strongest memories of his career.
He helped City win the FA Cup and Premier League under Roberto Mancini. Balotelli believes those players contributed to the early stages of the club’s rise into a major force in European football.
The striker also spoke warmly about Mancini, who has played an important role throughout his career. Balotelli earned 36 appearances for Italy and scored 14 international goals, with his most recent appearance coming in 2018.
Focused on Continuing His Career
Balotelli remains committed to playing for as long as his body allows. He is training while recovering from a minor leg issue and continues to manage the demands of playing in the UAE’s hot conditions.
His immediate focus remains on maintaining his fitness, enjoying football and contributing on the pitch.
After retirement, Balotelli plans to spend more time with his children and manage his business interests. Following a career filled with major achievements, demanding periods and constant public attention, he expects to pursue a quieter life away from football.
For now, his journey continues with Al Ittifaq, where football, family and a fresh challenge have come together in a meaningful chapter of his career.
Original interview: Read the full Mario Balotelli interview on The Guardian:
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/aug/30/mario-balotelli-interview-italy-saudi-arabia-maturity
