Milan striker Mario Balotelli says he’ll be worried when fans stop whistling him, as ‘that’d mean they no longer fear me’.
The striker arrived from Liverpool yesterday and talked to Gazzetta dello Sport about his personal life, hopes of an Azzurri call-up for the Euros, and inability to celebrate scoring goals.
“The day when fans stop whistling at me, I will be very worried – that would mean they no longer fear me,” he said.
Milan striker Mario Balotelli says he’ll be worried when fans stop whistling him, as ‘that’d mean they no longer fear me’.
The striker arrived from Liverpool yesterday and talked to Gazzetta dello Sport about his personal life, hopes of an Azzurri call-up for the Euros, and inability to celebrate scoring goals.
“The day when fans stop whistling at me, I will be very worried – that would mean they no longer fear me,” he said.
“Racism mustn’t be supported, it has to be destroyed. The referee has the power to suspend play. If he doesn’t, I won’t leave the pitch by myself, I won’t say anything, I will play and that’s enough.
“But then in the press room I will kick up a fuss. We want respect.
“They do the boos because of the colour of my skin when I’m an opponent and then when I wear the Azzurri shirt the same fans ask me to score? It’s absurd.
“I like sports cars but I’m definitely not the only footballer to have one. However, I will go to Milanello in an Audi with the club car, like all my teammates.
“I want to be judged by what I do on the pitch. I know that’s not always possible and I accept that.
“I use social media like everyone at my age. Now I’m more attentive though, I’ve been asked to show more moderation in my fashion sense and to follow the Milan style, and I will adapt without a problem.
“Yes, I’m thinking about the Euros, I want to do well with Milan and get back in the national team.
“But now I just have to work, one step at a time. I want to play at the Euros and will do everything to get there.
“To see me once again in the Azzurri shirt was one of my father’s wishes before he died. I have to do it for him as well.
“Football is my life, ever since I was born. I adore it. I was separated from my family and left Italy for football. I love to play and believe me, I’m not at war with anyone, ask my teammates – I’m the one who’s always joking around in the changing room.
“When I’m serious on the pitch, it’s because I’m focused, not because I’m pissed off.
“Mihajlovic has also asked me if I will smile and celebrate after scoring. It’s the only thing that I can’t promise, because it doesn’t come naturally to me.
“It’s something stronger than me. But I’ve often celebrated, and I always feel joy , I assure you.”